Taiwanese Singer Yu Tian’s Son-in-Law, Gary Chen, Gets Suspended Jail Sentence

Lim Ruey Yan

Gary Chen, the son-in-law of renowned Taiwanese singers Yu Tian and Li Ya-ping, has been sentenced to two years in prison, though the sentence has been suspended for five years. Chen, 37, was arrested earlier this year on charges related to his role as a chief runner in a large scam syndicate.

The case began when Chen was detained in April on suspicion of orchestrating fraudulent activities, money laundering, and involvement in organized crime. Following an investigation, Chen and eight other individuals were formally charged by the New Taipei District Prosecutors Office in June.

On November 12, the New Taipei District Court decided on a suspended jail sentence for Chen, citing his lack of a criminal history and his efforts to compensate the victims of the scam. In addition to probation, Chen must complete 240 hours of community service and attend eight hours of legal education.

Chen’s wife, Ms. Yu Yuan-chi, is the second daughter of Yu Tian, the iconic Taiwanese singer known for his 1977 hit Under The Banyan Tree, and Li Ya-ping, famous for Wake Up, Lei Meng Na (1971). The couple has been affected by the legal proceedings, especially after the tragic passing of their daughter, Ms. Yu, who died of cancer in 2022. They have two young children, whom Yu Tian and Li have sought guardianship of following Chen’s arrest.

Li Ya-ping commented on the court’s decision, expressing respect for the suspended sentence, and noted that she had visited her grandchildren recently. The family continues to navigate the legal and emotional challenges brought on by these events.