Unrepresented ‘Mr. and Mrs. Ho,’ accused of mutual assault appear in court amid public interest

The 77-year-old Ho Huen, known as Mr. Ho, and his 44-year-old wife, Ye Xiuding, known as Mrs. Ho, appeared unrepresented in the District Court on Tuesday.

Ho, who claimed to be a retiree, and Ye, who identified as a homemaker, each face one charge of intentional assault occasioning actual bodily harm. The charges stem from a physical altercation between them in Tuen Mun in May last year.

Legal aid rejection and adjournment

They have not secured legal representation because their legal aid applications were rejected.

Judge Stanley Chan Kwong-chi explained that the Legal Aid Department determined the couple’s financial situation did not meet the eligibility criteria.

The judge adjourned proceedings to March 17, stressing that the court could not delay the case indefinitely. He noted that legal representation would help ensure a smoother and fairer process for the defendants.

Ho acknowledged the advice and promised to find a lawyer. Ye said she would represent herself, claiming her legal aid rejection resulted from online harassment by “haters.”

Chan responded that the Legal Aid Department operates impartially and urged her not to harbor such misconceptions or read online comments.

At the hearing’s close, Ye requested a permanent stay of proceedings due to ongoing harassment.

The judge said she could apply for a stay but would need legal representation to present the necessary arguments.

Courtroom drama and judge’s warning

The defendants sat apart in the dock without speaking. The public gallery was packed, with some spectators whispering and snickering.

Chan warned them to stay silent or risk contempt of court, noting public interest but stressing decorum respects the court.

He mentioned someone followed a defendant after the last hearing and urged the public to behave as “normal and well-educated Hong Kong people,” treating the defendants as innocent until proven guilty.

Public reaction and departure

When a November date was suggested, a loud “wow” came from the gallery. Chan challenged the person to stand up; no one did.

He said the courtroom is not a park and reminded everyone, “This is not a public trial. Hong Kong is a place for the rule of law.”

Dozens waited outside. Police cordoned the area with orange tape.

Ye left first, escorted by officers, entering a taxi amid people taking photos. Ho left separately by taxi. Neither spoke to media.