Chinatown Police Station Exposed: US Citizen Pleads Guilty to Acting as Illegal Agent of Foreign Government
A New York resident, Chen Jinping, has pleaded guilty to acting as an illegal agent of a foreign government, specifically China’s Ministry of Public Security.
Chen, a 60-year-old Manhattan resident and U.S. citizen, operated a secret community center in Chinatown that was actually a police station, according to the Department of Justice (DOJ) and the FBI. The center, which was established in 2022, was used to renew Chinese driver’s licenses, organize protests, and identify targets of the Chinese government.
The Investigation
The FBI launched an investigation into the Chinatown station in 2022 after receiving a tip that it was receiving deleted communications with a Chinese government official. The investigation revealed that the center was set up by the Chinese Ministry of Public Security to serve Chinese nationals who were unable to return to China to renew official documents during the pandemic.
The Consequences
Chen faces up to five years in prison for conspiring to act as an agent for the government of the People’s Republic of China. As part of his plea deal, an obstruction of justice charge against him was dismissed. His co-conspirator, Lu Jianwang of the Bronx, has pleaded not guilty to all charges and awaits trial.
Similar Operations Abroad
Similar operations have been linked to the Chinese government in Canada, Italy, and Spain. International watchdog groups have accused these stations of being used for surveillance and harassment of Chinese refugees.
Conclusion
Chen’s plea deal highlights the importance of vigilance in detecting and preventing foreign interference in domestic affairs. The case serves as a reminder that even seemingly innocuous community centers can be used for nefarious purposes.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is the punishment for acting as an illegal agent of a foreign government?
A: The punishment for acting as an illegal agent of a foreign government can include up to five years in prison.
Q: What was the purpose of the Chinatown police station?
A: The purpose of the Chinatown police station was to serve Chinese nationals who were unable to return to China to renew official documents during the pandemic.
Q: What is the current status of the co-conspirator, Lu Jianwang?
A: Lu Jianwang has pleaded not guilty to all charges and awaits trial.
Q: Are similar operations linked to the Chinese government found in other countries?
A: Yes, similar operations have been linked to the Chinese government in Canada, Italy, and Spain.
