A California real estate agent, Wanying Zhang, accused of spying on a relative of Taiwan’s president for China, sought to be released from federal custody. She offered over $800,000 in property equity and financial guarantees, arguing she is not a flight risk.
Zhang, 34, from Irvine, presented her defense through her attorney. She emphasized her U.S. citizenship, family ties, and history of returning from international trips. These factors, according to her, would ensure her appearance in court.
Authorities arrested Zhang at Los Angeles International Airport as she prepared to fly to China. She faces accusations of acting as an unregistered foreign agent.
FEDS SAY US CITIZEN GATHERED INFORMATION ON AMERICAN TARGETS FOR CHINESE COMMUNIST PARTY
Zhang, a naturalized citizen since 2020, lives with her husband and their two young daughters. Her lawyer, Craig Harbaugh, explained that she has been in the real estate business in Orange County for about ten years.
The defense suggested several measures for her release:
- A residence in Irvine with $700,000 equity as collateral
- $120,000 in financial guarantees from her husband, his family, and a friend
- GPS-monitored home detention
- Surrendering travel documents
- Monitoring of electronic devices
- Restricted access to airports and related individuals
Pretrial Services had recommended her detention, citing risks of her not appearing in court. However, Zhang’s team believes that the proposed conditions would address these concerns effectively.
Zhang’s legal representatives also questioned the one-way ticket to China, emphasizing her routine of separate bookings for international travel. The defense noted that she had visited China, France, and Japan the past year and returned to the U.S. each time.
The complaint against Zhang cites alleged involvement in a surveillance operation in September 2025. She reportedly participated in activities near the Seattle home of a Taiwanese official’s relative.
An FBI affidavit claims she transmitted sensitive information to a suspected Chinese official. Investigators also noted Zhang’s education at China’s University of International Relations, linked with Chinese intelligence.
Despite these allegations, her attorneys assert her intention to prove her innocence. If convicted, she faces up to 10 years in federal prison.
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