(Minghui.org) Following her arrest in March 2014, Ms. Yang Suoxian from Yuxi City was tried by the Jiangchuan County Court on the morning of August 14, 2014, for her belief in Falun Gong. A verdict was not announced.
During the trial, Ms. Yang's lawyer was repeatedly interrupted by the five judges, especially when he mentioned her belief in Falun Gong. One of them eventually told him to stop talking.
Ms. Yang's daughter, who testified on her behalf, said, “My mother hasn't broken any law. Practicing Falun Gong is legal in China. The persecution of Falun Gong has torn many families apart during the past 15 years. As officials in the justice system, you will be held accountable for your decisions.” She also said they shouldn't persecute innocent people.
The judges replied, “We have our own requirements in dealing with Falun Gong related cases” and quickly called for a recess. When the trial ended, the judges had not reached a verdict.
Support by Local Villagers
More than ten police officers from the Jiangchuan County Domestic Security Division, including officer Pan Dong, broke into Ms. Yang's home at around 8:00 a.m. on March 4, 2014. Ms. Yang and her husband, Mr. Li Baoxing, were arrested and their home ransacked. Personal belongings were confiscated, including 5,600 yuan in cash, a computer, a printer, a DVD player, and various electronic devices.
After the couple was arrested, more than 100 villagers signed a petition calling for their release. Mr. Li was released three days later, but the officials at the Jiangchuan County Domestic Security Division refused to release Ms. Yang.
Ms. Yang's son had to leave home to avoid arrest and further persecution, since the police had him on their “wanted” list. Her other family members were also closely monitored and threatened.
Ms. Yang's recent arrest and the ongoing police harassment has caused her 84-year-old father-in-law and 70-year-old mother severe mental stress.
Background
Ms. Yang, in her sixties, is well-liked in her village. She has held herself to the principles of Truthfulness-Compassion-Forbearance since she began practicing Falun Gong, and strives to be a good person at all times. She is no longer concerned about personal gain.
She voluntarily fixed a 2,500-meter-long ridge for the village, cleaned up shattered glass on the street, and often cleans the public bathrooms in the village.
When she learned that her husband had been mistakenly paid 1,000 yuan extra by his boss, she encouraged him to return the money, and call his boss immediately, so his boss wouldn't worry that the money was lost.
Parties Involved in Persecuting Ms. Yang:
Jiangchuan County Police Department: +86-877-8011044 (Office)Pan Dong, police officer of the Jiangchuan Domestic Security Division: +86-13708777026 (Cell)
