Sentencing delayed for massage indecencies
Sentencing has been delayed for a 60-year-old man convicted of a series of indecencies during massages while he undergoes more medical testing including a brain scan.
The condition of Cunbin Zhang deteriorated rapidly when he was found guilty at his Christchurch District Court trial and remanded in custody.
A medical report presented at his scheduled sentencing today showed there was still no diagnosis, with possibilities of a stroke, rapid onset of dementia or Parkinson’s disease.
Judge Stephen O’Driscoll granted the adjournment at the request of defence counsel Penny Brown and Crown prosecutor Nicola Pointer.
The sentencing was delayed to December 17 and in the meantime a MRI brain scan will take place.
At his original sentencing date in July, Zhang struggled to walk, his left arm shook constantly, and he slumped sideways when he sat in the dock. He had appeared in good health during his trial.
He was granted bail at that sentencing hearing, to live with his wife and daughter, who also had to accompany him to any medical appointments.
He remains on bail after today’s delay. Zhang was not present for the hearing. A report from a consultant neurologist had been provided before the hearing.
Judge O’Driscoll said: “I am satisfied on the basis of the medical report that there should be an adjournment of sentencing particularly to enable further investigations to take place by the medical authorities.”
That would include the brain scan and a range of other tests.
The charges against Zhang involved his behaviour during full-body massages given at two massage shops where he was working after having little training or experience. The charges alleged he had massaged or touched women’s breasts, inner thighs, pubic areas, and buttocks. One charge alleged that he pulled a woman’s nipples and another that he pulled buttocks apart. The charges involved three complainants who gave evidence at his trial.
Category: Focus
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