TAIPEI (Taiwan News) — Internet influencer Chen Chih-han (陳之漢), aka Kuan Chang (館長), has been indicted by New Taipei City prosecutors for threats made against President Lai Ching-te (賴清德).

Chen was arrested in October for remarks he made on a livestream about “beheading Lai,” and China conducting a “decapitation strike” against the president. Initially released on bail of NT$150,000 (US$4,750), Chen was indicted in court Friday on charges of intimidation and endangering public safety, reported UDN. 

Prosecutors argued that the malicious and explicit nature of Chen’s statements exceeded acceptable norms and is not protected by freedom of speech. They also argued that as an internet celebrity, Chen was fully aware of his influence and reach.

The court determined that his comments threatening the head of state could have incited violence or property damage. His acts constituted a threat to public safety and potential intimidation of law enforcement officers, according to prosecutors.

In addition to threatening remarks against Lai, Chen also made news last year for allegedly colluding with China, by accepting bribes from CPP officials to criticize the Taiwan government on his livestream. 

Several months before Chen’s “decapitation” remarks, he made a trip to China where he reportedly met with members of China’s United Front Work Department to assist in influencing Taiwanese internet users, reported TCN.