Victim, 72, endured four separate incidents before confronting the man and calling police

A 66-year-old man has been sentenced to seven weeks in jail for molesting a 72-year-old cleaner at a coffee shop in Singapore, just months after being released from prison for a similar offense.

Convicted Again After Release

Cheng Sang Tai, a repeat offender, was convicted on June 3 for molesting an elderly woman working as a cleaner. His crime took place shortly after his release from jail following a molestation conviction and an additional sentence for sexual exposure in November 2024. Despite these previous charges, Cheng targeted another victim at a neighborhood coffee shop in early 2025.

Multiple Acts of Molestation

According to court reports, Cheng first assaulted the victim in March by pinching her buttocks. Over the following month, he grew bolder. He molested her three more times in April—again touching her buttocks, as well as her arm and back. The woman, initially shocked, decided to confront him after enduring repeated abuse. She later filed a police report.

Details Withheld Due to Gag Order

To protect the victim’s identity, the court has issued a gag order. Neither the coffee shop’s location nor any further personal details about the woman may be disclosed. The court emphasized the need to maintain her dignity and privacy, given her age and the nature of the offence.

Prosecution Calls for Deterrent Sentence

Deputy Public Prosecutor Xu Sijia stated that although no psychological trauma was formally diagnosed, the victim was frightened by the repeated molestation. The prosecution argued that Cheng’s behavior showed a pattern of exploitation and a blatant disregard for the law. His previous jail terms—nine weeks in 2004 and another eight in 2024—did not appear to deter him.

No Remorse Shown

During his trial, Cheng attempted to downplay his actions, saying through an interpreter that he was “just joking” and had merely been unlucky to be caught. The prosecution rejected his remarks, pointing out that the victim was clearly angered and distressed. The judge issued a strong warning: Cheng is not to touch this or any other woman upon his release.

This case highlights the vulnerability of elderly workers and the need for robust measures against repeat sexual offenders. For communities in Singapore and nearby Indonesia, particularly those with aging populations in public service roles, the incident is a stark reminder that legal consequences must be met with social vigilance and support for victims.

Sources: Straits Times (2025) , Mothership (2025)

Keywords: Sexual Assault, Molestation Case, Singapore Crime, Elderly Abuse, Coffee Shop Molest, Repeat Offender