Restaurant Owner Accused of Violent Workplace Assaults
A Braddon restaurant owner stands accused of repeatedly assaulting an employee in what prosecutors describe as a disturbing pattern of workplace violence that has left the victim fearing for their safety. Yi-Chung Hsieh, 40, who also goes by Andrew, faces multiple assault charges following allegations he slapped and kicked a staff member at White Chaco restaurant while manager Chee Soh, 40, allegedly participated in one attack.
Court Hears Disturbing Details of Alleged Assaults
ACT Magistrates Court heard on Saturday, November 29, 2025, that the alleged assaults occurred on three separate occasions during November 2025. Prosecutor Corinne Kennedy told the court that Hsieh had kicked the victim and slapped them in the face during these incidents, while manager Soh allegedly punched the staff member twice in the head during one particular altercation.
Ms Kennedy described the alleged behaviour as "demeaning and violent acts" that she claimed "permeate the employment culture of this business." She told the court these incidents were "repeated and are made brazenly in front of witnesses," while opposing bail for Hsieh.
Victim's Safety Concerns and Workplace Power Dynamics
The court heard the alleged victim only came forward to police after attending hospital with serious injuries on Saturday, November 22. According to the prosecution, the staff member had been extremely concerned for their safety both at the restaurant and their home.
Ms Kennedy revealed that workplace power dynamics had previously prevented the victim from reporting incidents, noting they had risked their income and livelihood by finally approaching authorities. The prosecutor emphasized the vulnerability of the employee in this situation.
Police documents indicate Hsieh has been charged with four counts of common assault and one count of assault occasioning actual bodily harm by joint commission. Soh faces a single charge of assault occasioning actual bodily harm by joint commission.
Bail Granted With Strict Conditions
Despite the serious nature of the allegations, both men were granted bail by Magistrate Alexandra Burt. Hsieh received conditions requiring him to remain 100 metres away from the alleged victim, while Soh must maintain a two-metre distance from the staff member while at the restaurant.
The court heard that the restaurant "wouldn't run" without Soh's involvement, and noted the alleged victim also relied on their job at the venue as their sole source of income.
Magistrate Burt acknowledged the vulnerability of the employee but also considered Hsieh's circumstances, including his responsibility for caring for elderly parents and a child. She noted that over the previous two weeks, Hsieh had allegedly "acted with impunity" in his assaults on the victim.
The case has been adjourned until January, when both men are scheduled to reappear in court. White Chaco, an Asian-fusion restaurant located at 27 Lonsdale Street in Braddon, has been operating since 2018.
