Jimmy Lai faces sentencing as lawyers seek leniency

Jimmy Lai returned to court for mitigation hearings as his lawyers asked judges to consider his age and health ahead of sentencing; he faces at least 10 years and possibly life under Hong Kong’s national security law.

Jimmy Lai was back in court for mitigation hearings, where his legal team asked judges to consider his age and medical conditions when deciding punishment. He was found guilty last month on charges under Hong Kong’s national security law. The law carries a minimum sentence of 10 years and allows for a life term if the offence is deemed of a grave nature. Chinese and Hong Kong authorities have described his actions in strongly critical terms, while some international bodies and rights groups have criticized the prosecution. Key points: - A panel of judges concluded there was "indisputable evidence" that Mr. Lai conspired with foreign actors, according to the court ruling. - China's Office for Safeguarding National Security described him as a ringleader of the 2019 unrest, as reported by officials. - Mr. Lai, 78, is undergoing mitigation hearings and faces a minimum 10-year sentence and the possibility of life imprisonment under the national security law. - His lawyers highlighted his health issues and extended time in solitary confinement and asked the court to take those factors into account; the date of final sentencing has not been specified. Summary: The court will next decide Mr. Lai's sentence after mitigation submissions, a decision that will determine whether he receives at least 10 years or potentially a life term under the statute. Undetermined at this time.