China Stalking Case: LA Artist & Xi Jinping Criticism
- Federal authorities have charged two men with stalking a Los Angeles artist known for criticizing Chinese President Xi Jinping.
- Attorney’s Office for the Central District of California detailed the charges, alleging that the pair sought to silence the artist's free speech.
- Court documents reveal that Cui and Miller allegedly hired individuals, unaware they were working with the FBI, to disrupt potential protests against Xi's appearance at the Asia Pacific...
Federal authorities have charged Cui Guanghai and John Miller with stalking a Los Angeles artist, a vocal critic of Chinese President Xi Jinping; this action reveals the lengths to which some will go to silence dissent. The charges include interstate stalking, conspiracy, smuggling, and violations of the Arms Export Control Act. Investigators say the suspects surveilled the artist, sabotaged their property, and even attempted to bribe individuals to prevent the display of artwork, a clear attempt to intimidate. Furthermore, the accused allegedly sought to smuggle defense articles to China, intensifying the legal repercussions. This case underscores the complex interplay of international relations and free speech, prompting a deeper look at the implications for both national security and artistic expression. For more, dive deeper into this developing story with News Directory 3 and discover what’s next in the unfolding legal battle.
Stalking Case Targets Xi Jinping Critic in los Angeles
Updated June 6, 2025
Federal authorities have charged two men with stalking a Los Angeles artist known for criticizing Chinese President Xi Jinping. Cui Guanghai, 43, of China, and John Miller, 63, of the U.K., face multiple federal charges, including interstate stalking, conspiracy, smuggling, and violating the Arms Export Control Act.
The U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Central District of California detailed the charges, alleging that the pair sought to silence the artist’s free speech. The FBI’s Dan Bongino said the defendants allegedly plotted to harass and interfere with an individual who criticized the actions of the People’s Republic of China. He added that the same individuals are also charged with trying to obtain and export sensitive U.S. military technology to China.
Court documents reveal that Cui and Miller allegedly hired individuals, unaware they were working with the FBI, to disrupt potential protests against Xi’s appearance at the Asia Pacific Economic Cooperation summit. the artist, who has publicly criticized Xi and the Chinese government, was allegedly surveilled, had a tracking device placed on their car, and suffered slashed tires. Statues created by the artist depicting Xi and his wife were also reportedly bought and destroyed.
In spring 2025, after the artist announced plans to display the statues online, Cui and Miller allegedly offered $36,500 to prevent the display. The individuals they approached were, again, working with the FBI.
The indictment further alleges that beginning in November 2023, Miller and Cui attempted to illegally export U.S. defense articles,including air defense radar,drones,missiles,and cryptographic devices,to China.Discussions included concealing the items in appliances or shipping them via Hong Kong.
Authorities said Cui and Miller allegedly paid about $10,000 as a deposit for a cryptographic device, using a U.S.-based courier and wire transfers to a U.S. bank account.
If convicted, Cui and Miller each face significant prison time. The potential sentences include up to five years for conspiracy and interstate stalking, 20 years for violating the Arms Export Control Act, and 10 years for smuggling. The case highlights the intersection of free speech, international relations, and national security concerns.
What’s next
The investigation is ongoing, and further details are expected to emerge as the case proceeds through the legal system. The U.S. government is likely to continue its focus on preventing the illegal export of sensitive technology and protecting individuals’ rights to free speech.