Justice Chief Slams Personal Attacks On Magistrates

The secretary for justice on Wednesday condemned personal attacks against members of the judiciary, after graffiti targeting a former magistrate appeared in Kowloon Tong.

"Last night, someone directed some personal attacks and even acts of contempt at an individual judge," Teresa Cheng told reporters at the Legislative Council.

"The government finds these acts unacceptable," she said.

Graffiti calling former Eastern Court magistrate Stanley Ho a "dog judge" was sprayed outside homes on Marconi Road on Tuesday night, and police said they were investigating the matter.

Ho has been the target of pro-Beijing groups after he criticised evidence submitted by police officers and acquitted some of those prosecuted over anti-government protests.

Cheng said that when people are discussing rulings, they should look at judges' reasoning in their written judgements objectively.

She also pointed out that her department is able to lodge an appeal if it finds an issue with a court judgement.