First Assistant U.S. Attorney Bill Essayli raised alarms about the pervasive nature of Chinese espionage in the United States following the recent arrest of an alleged Chinese agent in Los Angeles. In an interview with Fox News Digital, Essayli highlighted that his office has charged several alleged Chinese spies, emphasizing the aggressive efforts by Beijing to extend its influence within the U.S.
Concerns Over Espionage
Essayli described the extent of Chinese espionage as extensive. He noted, “China is one of our significant adversaries. They are working to advance their interests, playing a long-term game that involves substantial resource investment. This includes developing sources and recruiting individuals in the U.S. to further their goals.” He further expressed that China is willing to steal technology and engage in espionage without limits, stressing the importance of vigilance and operations disruption to protect U.S. sovereignty.
“They’re willing to steal our technology; they’re willing to engage in espionage here. So, there’s no limit to what China is willing to do.” – Bill Essayli
Recent Arrests and Charges
Discussing recent cases, Essayli mentioned a woman from Irvine engaged in espionage against the Taiwanese president’s family and another individual arrested for selling over $300 million in SI chips to China. He also referenced a local city mayor charged for acting as an unregistered agent of China, spreading propaganda, and following directives.
Essayli assured that there is significant work being done by the FBI, with dedicated teams focused on combating such espionage activities. He emphasized the commitment of the U.S. Attorney’s Office in supporting investigations and pressing criminal charges to mitigate these threats.
The Case of Wanying Zhang
Wanying Zhang, aged 34 from Irvine, was recently arrested for allegedly collaborating with an associate to conduct surveillance on a family member of Taiwan’s president near Seattle. Zhang, known as “Heather” in the U.S., was intercepted at the Los Angeles airport as she attempted to board a plane to China.
Federal charges accuse Zhang of acting as an unregistered agent for China. The complaint indicates she traveled to Seattle in 2025 under Chinese officials’ directives, sending them photos, videos, and license plate information. Essayli noted that Zhang coordinated her trip using tradecraft methods to evade detection and did not inform the attorney general of her actions on behalf of a foreign government, which is a federal offense.
On “The Big Weekend Show,” Essayli confirmed that Zhang’s surveillance targeted a relative of Taiwan’s president, indicating the seriousness of the espionage activities directed by the Chinese government. The reported target from law enforcement sources was Ting-Yu Lai, the U.S.-based son of Taiwanese President Lai Ching-te. However, the complaint did not disclose his name.
“She was conducting surveillance on behalf of the Chinese government. She was acting as a foreign agent.” – Bill Essayli
Anders Hagstrom from Fox News Digital covers national politics and significant news events.
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