THE father of Hong Kong reporter Xi Yang suffered a heart attack when he was told by court officials his son had been sentenced to 12 years in prison and that he would be stripped of political rights for two years.
Xi's father, who was still in hospital last night, said the sentence was much more severe than earlier reports of leniency suggested, according to a report by TVB.
He said the news was devastating for the family when they were told on Friday.
Court officials did not explain on what grounds Xi was convicted. Nor was there a written verdict.
However, the father of the Ming Pao reporter was told the family could appeal. The family is now considering finding a legal representative.
Ming Pao representatives in Beijing offered their backing for an appeal.