High Court Clears Way for Prosecution of Housing Minister David Lee

The High Court has ruled that Housing Minister David Lee’s re-arrest and committal for trial were lawful, clearing the way for prosecution to continue in the tax-exemption fraud case involving businessman Hugh Leong Poi. Justice Westmin James rejected Lee’s constitutional and judicial review challenge, but he can still appeal and argue abuse of process at trial.

Housing Minister David Lee has lost his High Court challenge to the DPP’s decision to reinstate fraud charges over a vehicle tax exemption linked to a Mercedes-Benz G63 AMG import. Justice Westmin James ruled that the case could continue under the transitional legal regime, and said Lee can still seek to stay the proceedings at trial.

The High Court has ruled that Housing Minister David Lee’s re-arrest and committal for trial were lawful, clearing the way for the prosecution over alleged misbehaviour in public office and a $1.4 million tax-exemption fraud involving businessman Hugh Leong Poi. Justice Westmin James said the DPP acted within his powers, though Lee can still argue at trial that the case is an abuse of process and may appeal.