Men have traditionally dominated the law enforcement community in this country, but Ilan County has emerged as a rare exception to the rule, with three women heading its police and judicial agencies.
Fei Ling-ling (
In March this year, Hsieh Fen-fen (
This was not the first time that the county made history in the judicial system. Three years ago, Lin Ya-feng (林雅鋒) became Ilan County District Court superintendent and the nation's first-ever female district court head.
Fei, who has handled many felony cases, including the Hsichi Trio case, said she feels a bit of anxiety in assuming her new post as the nation's sole female chief prosecutor.
Fei initially turned down the promotion, as she did not want to leave her Taipei home to work in Ilan alone. But her superior insisted on promoting her in consideration of her competence and devoted working style.
During her stint at the Taiwan High Court public prosecutor's office, Fei was a member of a special team supervising the handling of domestic violence, child abuse and child prostitution cases.
Meanwhile, since assuming office, Lin has implemented several innovative reforms to "soften" the court's image.
"The court should not be a frightening place and should project a humane image," she said.
When Hsieh was named the Ilan County Police Bureau chief, some people expressed doubts about her ability to head the male-dominated police force.
More than four months after her inauguration, Hsieh has won recognition in the county for her wise leadership and diligence. Hsieh once headed the female police corps and juvenile police squad in Taipei.
RSS