American Kills Himself in Court After Marijuana Conviction
An American cram school teacher killed himself in a courthouse in Changhua County this morning after being sentenced to a four year prison term for growing marijuana.
Upon hearing the judges decision, 41 year-old Tyrel Martin Marhanka, Chinese name 李瑪翰 (Li Mahan), pulled a pair of scissors out of his pocket and stabbed himself in the neck.
Marhanka was rushed to hospital but the damage to blood vessels and his windpipe was too severe and doctors were unable to save him. He was pronounced dead at 11:15.
In a previous hearing, Marhanka had claimed he suffered from a hereditary mental problem and smoked marijuana to help him cope with the condition.
Pictures on local media websites showed the blood-splattered floor of the courthouse.
Taiwan English News is an independent publication with no corporate funding. Subscribe to Taiwan English News to receive the latest news via email. Advertising queries are welcome. Share, like, comment below, and please, buy me a coffee. I really need it.
I only came to learn of Ty’s passing last week. I am truly saddened. He was such a generous person and better than his portrayal of being only a drug user. Rest in peace, Ty.