Commuter Sentenced to Treatment After Assaulting Security Officer

A commuter in Singapore has been ordered to undergo a mandatory treatment order (MTO) for two years following an incident in which he pushed a security officer during a bag screening at a train station. The incident, which occurred on August 17, 2024, resulted in the officer, aged 66, sustaining injuries.

The individual, identified as Alina Meridian, 31, was diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder prior to the incident. Court reports indicated that his condition was “slightly triggered” during the encounter. The MTO is designed for offenders with certain treatable psychiatric conditions, directing them to receive necessary treatment.

Meridian’s inability to appropriately adjust his behavior in social contexts contributed to the escalation of the situation, according to District Judge Lorraine Ho. He initially sought to contest the charges but later changed his plea to guilty after consulting with legal representatives Sunil Sudheesan and Joyce Khoo from Quahe Woo & Palmer under the Enhanced Guidance for Plea Scheme (EGPS).

The incident unfolded just before 08:00 at Lorong Chuan MRT Station. Meridian was on his way to a job training course when he encountered Cindy Tay Jui Hwa, a senior security officer with Certis Cisco, who was conducting routine checks. Upon being asked to undergo a bag check, Meridian became agitated, allegedly throwing his bag on the ground and refusing to comply.

According to the prosecution, he shouted at Mdm Tay, urging her to proceed quickly due to his perceived urgency. This confrontation escalated when Meridian pushed the officer, causing her to fall and suffer a 1 cm laceration to her head. She required medical attention and was granted five days of leave to recover.

In her sentencing remarks, Judge Ho expressed hope that Meridian would use this opportunity for personal development and take responsibility for his actions. She noted that he had expressed a desire to care for his grandmother and contribute positively to society. The judge encouraged him to become a role model for others with hidden disabilities.

For the charge of voluntarily causing hurt, Meridian faced potential penalties of up to three years in prison, fines of up to S$5,000 (approximately US$3,850), or both. The court’s decision underscores the importance of addressing behavioral issues through treatment rather than solely punitive measures, particularly in cases involving mental health challenges.