Ex-RTHK Producer Loses Appeal Over Database Misuse

The High Court on Monday rejected an appeal by former RTHK freelance producer Bao Choy against her conviction for making false statements when accessing a government vehicle registration database.

Choy was fined HK$6,000 last year for the breach, which took place as she investigated the 2019 Yuen Long gang attack.

Handing down his verdict, judge Alex Lee said Choy's intention was to track down vehicles related to the attack, rather than probing traffic and transport related issues as the journalist had claimed.

He noted that Choy accessed the database to search for vehicle owners and used the information gathered for a television programme, saying this contradicted the claim she made when applying for access.

Lee added that he did not rule out the possibility that Choy had good intentions when accessing the database, but this would not be a valid defence for her actions.

Speaking to reporters outside the court, Choy said she was disappointed with the judgement.

"I believe people working in the media sector are also disappointed with the judgement. The rejected appeal would directly affect the search system being used in the sector. This would hinder journalists from monitoring those with power," she said.

Choy added that she would discuss with her legal team whether to appeal again.

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