Shaolin Temple | Former Abbot Shi Yongxin Prosecuted for Alleged Misappropriation of Funds and Other Charges

CCTV News reports that Shoushan Shaolin Temple’s former abbot, Shi Yongxin (originally Liu Yingcheng), is suspected of embezzlement, misappropriation of funds, accepting bribes as a non-state employee, and offering bribes. He has been formally prosecuted by the Xinxiang Intermediate People’s Court.

During the review and prosecution stage, the procuratorial authorities legally informed the defendant, Shi Yongxin, of his rights to litigation, questioned him, and listened to the opinions of his defense attorneys.

Having multiple mistresses and raising illegitimate children

Shi Yongxin has been in charge of Shaolin Temple affairs since 1987 and officially became abbot in 1999. On July 27 last year, the Shaolin Temple Management Office reported that Shi Yongxin was suspected of criminal offenses, including embezzlement and misappropriation of project funds and temple assets; he also severely violated Buddhist precepts, maintaining improper relationships with multiple women over a long period and raising illegitimate children.

The Chinese Buddhist Association also announced the cancellation of Shi Yongxin’s monastic credentials.