The Department of Justice (DOJ) on Wednesday accused five people of attempting to suppress criticism of the Chinese government, including by trying to thwart the campaign of a candidate for Congress. In three separate cases unveiled on Wednesday, government prosecutors allege several plots to undercut criticism of China on U.S. soil. The allegations include considering physically assaulting the congressional candidate; attempting to bribe U.S. tax officials in exchange for information about an advocate for democratic reform in China; and spying on members of the U.S.-based Chinese dissident community.
“This activity is antithetical to fundamental American values, and we will not tolerate it when it violates U.S. law,” Matthew Olsen, the assistant attorney general leading the DOJ’s National Security Division, said in a statement.
“The Department of Justice will defend the rights of Americans and those who come to live, work and study in the United States. We will not allow any foreign government to impede their freedom of speech, to deny them the protection of our laws or to threaten their safety or the safety of their families.”
