A French student studying in Singapore has been fined 600 Singapore dollars ($465) after admitting to licking a straw from a juice vending machine and returning it, an act he recorded for social media. The 19-year-old, Didier Gaspard Owen Maximilien, pleaded guilty Thursday to a charge of public nuisance.
The incident occurred in March at a shopping mall and gained attention after the video spread online, leading to his arrest and charge in April. Prosecutors noted that the stunt risked undermining public confidence in the hygiene of the vending machine.
While a charge of mischief was considered, it was taken into account during sentencing. The court opted for the fine, noting mitigating factors such as Maximilien's youth, his early guilty plea, the fact that he retrieved the straw himself, and that no member of the public used it. Prosecutors had sought a fine up to 2,000 Singapore dollars, the maximum for the public nuisance charge, which can carry up to three months in prison.
Maximilien's defense counsel stated that the student deeply regrets his actions and that the video was intended as a social media stunt for his followers. The defense also clarified that Maximilien later used the straw himself for his own drink, meaning it was not intended for another consumer. His parents will reportedly ensure the fine is paid.
IJooz, the company operating the vending machine, filed a police report and replaced all 500 straws in the affected dispenser. The company has indicated plans to upgrade its machines with features such as individually packaged straws and secure compartments that only unlock after purchase.
Singapore, known for its strict regulations on public behavior and cleanliness, imposes significant penalties for offenses like littering and vandalism. Maximilien, who is pursuing a business degree in Singapore, is also scheduled to be in France from September to December as part of his studies. Immigration authorities will determine the impact of the conviction on his student pass.