Prosecution seeks 5 year prison term for composer Don Spike

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Prosecution seeks 5 year prison term for composer Don Spike

Published: 20 Dec. 2022, 16:22

Composer and producer Don Spike enters the Seoul Northern District Court in Dobong District, Northern Seoul, in September for a warrant review requested by the police. [NEWS1]

The prosecution sought a five-year prison sentence for composer Don Spike, currently under arrest on charges of using methamphetamine on multiple occasions, during Tuesday’s trial at the Seoul Northern District Court in Dobong District, northern Seoul.

The 45-year-old composer whose real name is Kim Min-su was arrested in September at a hotel in southern Seoul. He was charged with purchasing 45 million won ($34,900) worth of methamphetamine on nine occasions since December 2021 and using it on 14 occasions, often with accomplices.

At the time of his arrest, Don Spike had 20 grams of methamphetamine on his person, enough for over 600 uses.

Don Spike admitted to the charges of purchasing and using methamphetamine on multiple occasions during a trial held on Dec. 6.

During a trial on Tuesday, the prosecution proceeded to seek five years in prison, a fine of 39,857,500 won ($30,800) and 200 hours of drug rehabilitation for the composer.

“The amount of methamphetamine purchased and used by the defendant is formidable, and he abused his position as a celebrity to lead others to participate in his crimes,” the prosecution said while emphasizing the severity of illegal drug use and Don Spike’s repeated offenses of the same kind. The composer had previously clarified that his previous drug charges were due to using marijuana.

Don Spike, who appeared at court in his blue prison uniform on Tuesday, said, "I’m truly sorry. I will never reoffend.”

“The defendant is deeply remorseful and has been cooperative during his investigation,” his attorney said during the trial. “Since being put in custody, his health has deteriorated. His fingertips became paralyzed to the point of being unable to write a letter of apology [to the court]. Please consider these circumstances and give the defendant a chance to resume his music activities and do good for society.”

His sentencing will take place on Jan. 9 at 10 a.m.

BY HALEY YANG [yang.hyunjoo@joongang.co.kr]