TAIPEI (Taiwan News) — Former TPP Chair Ko Wen-je (柯文哲) was sentenced to 17 years in prison on Thursday after being found guilty of bribery, misappropriation of public funds, and embezzlement related to his presidential campaign.

The Taipei District Prosecutors Office accused Ko of accepting NT$15 million (US$470,000) in bribes and NT$2.1 million in political donations in exchange for granting a floor space ratio bonus to a Core Pacific development project, per Tai Sounds. Ko was also accused of embezzling funds through Muko Public Relations Company and misappropriating NT$62.3 million from the Chung Wang Foundation (眾望基金會).

The prosecution had originally requested a sentence of 28 years and six months. However, the judge handed down a 17-year sentence, which was reduced by combining the charges. Ko was sentenced to 13.5 years for accepting bribes in the Core Pacific case, six years for misappropriating donations, and 2.5 years for breach of trust related to the foundation’s funds, per ETtoday. In addition to the prison sentence, Ko was banned from running for public office for six years.

The Core Pacific case revolves around the controversial expansion of the Core Pacific Mall’s floor space ratio from 392% to 840%, with allegations of financial misconduct linked to the project. Ko was initially detained but later posted bail of NT$70 million to secure his release.

Two other cases related to Ko's presidential campaign also contributed to the charges. Ko was accused of diverting political donations through investments, paying employees of Muko Public Relations Company, and granting the company exclusive rights to his likeness, which his campaign then purchased. Ko is also accused of receiving money from KP Show, a concert event organized by his campaign.

In relation to the Chung Wang Foundation, Ko was charged with misappropriating funds to support his campaign staff and activities.