Cedric Lee, Deniece Cornejo 'Guilty' in Vhong Navarro Case
- Publish date: Thursday، 02 May 2024 | Last update: Tuesday، 10 December 2024
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A Taguig court sentenced businessman Cedric Lee, model Deniece Cornejo, and two others to life in prison for their involvement in the illegal detention for ransom case filed by actor and TV host Vhong Navarro. The ruling was handed down by Taguig Regional Trial Court (RTC) Branch 153 on Thursday, May 2, 2024.
Conviction and Sentencing
Lee, Cornejo, Ferdinand Guerrero, and Simeon Raz were found guilty beyond reasonable doubt for their roles in the case. Raz and Cornejo, who were present at the court, were immediately taken into custody. Arrest warrants were issued for Lee and Guerrero.
Damages Ordered
In addition to their sentences, the court ordered the convicted individuals to pay Navarro P100,000 each in civil indemnity, moral damages, and exemplary damages.
Background of the Case
The charges were related to an incident on January 22, 2014, in Taguig City. Navarro stated that Lee, Guerrero, and Raz attacked him after he was accused of raping Cornejo. Navarro also alleged that they threatened his life and demanded P2 million for his release.
In a separate ruling in February 2023, the Supreme Court dismissed the rape and acts of lasciviousness charges filed by Cornejo against Navarro.
After 10 years, Navarro was finally served justice following public criticism, detainment, and a prolonged legal battle.