SIBU: A 35-year-old lorry driver has been fined RM4,000, or two months' jail in default, by the Magistrate’s Court for criminally intimidating singer-songwriter Baby Shima.
Mel Maxpherson Munded, who hails from Kuching, pleaded guilty to the charge under Section 506 of the Penal Code, which carries a maximum penalty of seven years’ imprisonment, a fine, or both.
In his mitigation plea before Magistrate Oon Kork Chern, Mel sought leniency, citing that it was his first offence.
Mel stated that he is married with one child and has the added responsibility of caring for his elderly mother.
He also claimed to be under the influence of alcohol at the time of the offence and was unaware of his actions.
According to the facts of the case, Baby Shima, whose real name is Nor Ashima Ramli, discovered a threatening comment on her Facebook page around 11pm on Dec 30 last year while staying at a hotel in Sibu.
Following a police report lodged by Baby Shima, Mel was arrested at the Kota Sentosa police station at 9.15pm on Dec 31.
Prosecuting officer Siti Mariyah Dahari appeared for the prosecution while Mel was unrepresented.