China’s Alleged Spy Scheme: Influence in L.A. County and Beyond
Federal prosecutors have unveiled allegations of a Chinese spy operation in the San Gabriel Valley, aiming to cultivate political allies for the Chinese government’s agenda. The details of the operation are still emerging, but court documents and insider sources have revealed that at least one local council member was implicated in the purported scheme.
The indictment may not read like the plot of an international spy thriller, but it sheds light on the tactics employed by Chinese operatives seeking to expand their influence in the United States. Horace Frank, a former assistant chief of the Los Angeles Police Department, emphasized that Chinese authorities adopt a patient approach, recognizing that local politicians could ascend to more influential roles over time. Frank stated, “They play a long game. They don’t look for a big bang right away. They are going to build from the ground up.”
The alleged involvement of Chino Hills resident Yaoning “Mike” Sun in assisting the Chinese government in supporting a candidate for the Arcadia City Council, with the intent of promoting policies favorable to China in Southern California, underscores the extent of these covert operations. Sun, alongside another individual, John Chen, who targeted practitioners of Falun Gong, faced legal repercussions for acting as illegal agents of a foreign power.
The criminal complaint outlines how Chen had presented Sun and the council member as a united team dedicated to China’s cause, emphasizing Sun’s longstanding involvement in the Chinese community. This pattern of infiltrating local governments in smaller cities, offering financial support for local projects, and leveraging relationships within Chinese American communities has raised concerns among experts.
In a separate case involving Rep. Eric Swalwell and suspected Chinese spy Christine Fang, the House Ethics Committee investigated potential improper foreign influence. This case, along with recent charges against a woman accused of acting as a Chinese agent to advance Beijing’s agenda, underscores the growing focus on countering China’s political influence in the U.S.
FBI Director Christopher A. Wray highlighted the Chinese government’s strategy of cultivating early relationships with state and local officials to advocate for Beijing’s interests. The investigation in Los Angeles revealed attempts to extend this influence beyond the San Gabriel Valley, with implications for former L.A. County supervisors.
As these revelations unfold, the extent of Chinese espionage efforts and their impact on U.S. political landscapes continue to be scrutinized. The need for vigilance and robust countermeasures against foreign interference remains paramount in safeguarding the country’s democratic processes.
Stay informed and vigilant, as the battle against foreign influence touches communities across the nation, shaping the future of American governance and security. The stakes are high, but awareness and proactive measures can mitigate the risks posed by covert operations aiming to subvert democratic institutions.
