SINGAPORE - City Harvest Church founder Kong Hee has said that he was saddened by the length of his sentence, but has not decided if he will appeal.
In a Facebook post published at about 8.20pm on Friday (Nov 20), Kong wrote: "This afternoon, the sentence has been passed, and naturally I am saddened by the length of it.
"I am presently studying the judgement and sentence carefully with my lawyers, and will make a meaningful decision whether to appeal in due course."
He also thanked the church members and his friends for their support throughout the investigation and trial.
Kong and five other church leaders were found guilty of misusing some $50 million in church funds last month. Of thatamount, $24 million was used to bankroll the music career of Kong's wife, singer-pastor Ho Yeow Sun.
Kong, 51, was sentenced to eight years in jail, while the other accused were sentenced to between 21 months and six years each.
