Changhua County detective commits suicide – prosecutor investigates

• Authors: Chang Tsung-chiu and Lery Hiciano / staff reporter with staff writer

The Changhua County Police Department held a press conference today regarding the detective’s suicide, during which it stated that it had not received any complaints from the deceased before his death, although the case had been forwarded to the Changhua District Prosecutor’s Office.

Last month, a 39-year-old Changhua detective surnamed Chang (張) of the district police criminal investigation corps was found dead in his home by suicide, sparking allegations of workplace abuse and harassment.

At a press conference held in Changhua, Changhua County Police Chief Inspector Yang Chih-chieh (楊志傑) and Criminal Investigation Corps Commander Chen Pei-te (陳培德) said that although there was no evidence of abuse, they deeply regretted the situation and pledged to continue helping the deceased’s family.

Photo: Chang Tsung-chiu, Taipei Times

The police also invited experts to form a task force to investigate whether workplace bullying or harassment occurs in their office.

The department ruled that because the detective did not die in the line of duty, his family was entitled to a total of approximately NT$2.3 million ($70,000), a one-time death benefit of NT$1.6 million and a monthly payment of NT$4,049 to each of his children up to the age of 18 and a condolence payment of NT$2,000 during the holidays.

Family members of the deceased said he left a message on his phone swearing at his team leader and other co-workers, leading them to believe he was a victim of workplace bullying.

The mother of the deceased said in an interview that the department was blaming the person who could not speak, adding: “We want the truth.”

At a news conference, Yang said there were no signs or complaints about the detective’s workplace, adding that the deceased had positive relationships with his co-workers and there were no problems with his job performance.

He added that he understood the family’s pain and pledged full support.

When it comes to job requirements, the department only rewards officers, not punishes them, Yang said.

Team leaders often give up their own rewards to encourage colleagues, he added.

The department transferred the case to the prosecutor’s office on Monday and is cooperating with the investigation to determine the cause of the detective’s death, he added.

Chen said the team leader and other faculty members are receiving psychological support and counseling.

Chen said that while they couldn’t comment on personal relationships within the department, the team leader and captain got along well and sometimes took cigarette breaks together.

He added that the team’s commander, who Chen says cares about the physical and mental well-being of his officers, is shocked by the accusations.