tattoos

Monday, January 31, 2011

The 29-year-old singer was the first celebrity to be found guilty of violating the country's strict anti-pornography law, which came into effect in 2008 despite strong opposition from the public and members of government. It is seen by many as vaguely worded, its penalties too harsh.

Ariel insists the tapes were stolen from his house and posted online without his knowledge, but presiding Judge Singgih Budi Prakoso said he did nothing to prevent their distribution on the Internet.

He sentenced him to 3½ years in jail — well short of the maximum 12 years — and fined him $25,000.

"As a public figure, the defendant should be aware that fans might imitate his behavior," Prakoso said, adding that Ariel, lead singer of the group Peterpan, showed no remorse.

Indonesia, a secular country of 237 million people, has more Muslims than any other country in the world. Though most are moderate, a small extremist fringe has become more vocal in recent years.

They have pushed through controversial laws — including the anti-porn bill — and been known to attack anything perceived as blasphemous, from transvestites and bars to "deviant" religious sects.

More than 500 demonstrators turned out Monday, some pelting the police vehicle carrying Ariel to the court with rotten eggs and tomatoes. Others held placards criticizing the star.

0 Comments:

Post a Comment



 

blogger templates | Blogger