DETROIT (AP) — A Chinese scientist, detained for three months after landing in Detroit, received a sentence of time served on Wednesday. She was charged with illicitly importing biological materials to the U.S., but the court concluded these materials posed no risk to public safety.
During the hearing, U.S. District Judge Matthew Leitman noted the crucial mission of federal agents in preventing harmful materials from entering the country. However, he expressed that Chengxuan Han, who intended to start a year-long research position at the University of Michigan, did not align with those trying to do harm.
The judge emphasized, “This is the right balance to strike,” as he opted not to extend Han’s incarceration for an additional three months as the government proposed.
In heartfelt testimony, Han communicated her remorse in Mandarin, explaining her experience has been “very painful” and fearing it would ruin her professional future upon returning to China.
Later, Han stated through a translator, “The government agents are fulfilling their duties here. I never wanted to harm anyone or create a security risk.”
The U.S. Attorney’s Office has comprised unflattering remarks about Han, prominently labeling her an “alien from Wuhan,” a city now synonymous with the initial outbreak of COVID-19.
Her defense lawyer, Sara Garber, argued that Han is “not some kind of Chinese spy” and portrayed her as a “kind, nerdy, and polite academic.”
In her late 20s, Han entered a plea of no contest to the charges of smuggling and giving misleading statements. Prior to arriving in the U.S., authorities tracked три shipments made by her to an individual in Ann Arbor, one of which included a book concealing an envelope with special filter paper inside.
She wrote, “Hello! This is a fun letter with interesting patterns. I hope you can find joy in it.”
Furthermore, Han was charged with sending petri dishes featuring non-harmful nematode worms, specifically C. elegans. Officials indicated that Han failed to label these packages correctly and lacked authorization for their shipment.
Garber contended, “C. elegans is readily available, safe to study, and nonthreatening.”
Han’s research primarily revolves around how living organisms perceive light, temperature, and touch. “This isn’t a case of smuggling dangerous viruses or destructive plant pathogens,” the judge pointed out. “From what I understand, this material posed no threat whatsoever.”
It’s worth mentioning that Han’s case isn’t the only one ruffling feathers involving Chinese researchers at the University of Michigan. Another scientist, Yunqing Jian, faces accusations linked to her boyfriend that involve attempting to import harmful fungus capable of damaging crops like wheat and maize into the U.S. Jian’s situation is still unfolding.
