A lieutenant-colonel of the Republic of Singapore Air Force accused of trespassing into a Nanyang Technological University (NTU) dormitory and molesting a woman was granted $15,000 bail on Tuesday, following his remand at the Institute of Mental Health (IMH).
The court was not informed of the specifics of Neo Aik Chiao's mental health, and IMH has advised that he attend follow-up sessions with a psychiatrist or psychologist.
He is represented by Quahe Woo & Palmer lawyer Joyce Khoo. The date of his pre-trial conference is January 6, 2023.
Neo, 45, was previously charged with two charges of criminal trespass and one count of molestation. Neo had piloted helicopters, including the Chinook.
He is suspected of entering the dormitory rooms of two 18- and 21-year-old ladies about 2 a.m. on November 13.
The court records did not specify how he allegedly gained access to the property.
He is accused of sexually assaulting the older woman by stroking her left thigh.
Due to a gag order, details about the ladies and the dormitories cannot be published.
In a previous statement to The Straits Times, the Ministry of Defence (Mindef) stated that Singapore Armed Forces had suspended Neo from all responsibilities (SAF).
A Mindef official noted, "Because judicial procedures are continuing, Mindef/SAF cannot speak further at this time." Before deciding on additional suitable action, we shall carefully evaluate the eventual results.
"The SAF holds its service members to the highest levels of discipline and honesty.
"Service members who commit offenses will be punished according to the law. Those guilty of serious violations may be dismissed from regular service."
In response to inquiries from ST, NTU stated, "The safety of our students is our first priority, and we take trespassing extremely seriously.
"When the incident occurred, authorities were quickly dispatched to the location, and the university offered assistance to the affected students. The number of security patrols has increased."
For molestation, a perpetrator may face up to two years in prison, a fine, or caning, or any combination thereof.
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