Los Angeles, the city of dreams and opportunities, has recently been in the news for a controversial case involving a California man who was sentenced to nearly 3½ years in prison for running an extensive business that helped pregnant Chinese women travel to the United States to deliver babies who would automatically have American citizenship.
Michael Wei Yueh Liu, 59, was convicted in September of conspiracy and money laundering for running a company known as USA Happy Baby. His wife, Phoebe Dong, was also convicted in connection with the scheme and is expected to be sentenced early next year. The couple has since separated.
The U.S. authorities had sought a more than five-year prison term for Liu, but he was ultimately sentenced to 41 months in prison. As he was led out of the courtroom by authorities, Liu gave his attorney his belt and a folder and held Dong’s hand briefly while she sobbed.
During his sentencing hearing, Liu pleaded for leniency, citing his elderly parents and 13-year-old son who depend on him. He also expressed regret for his actions and stated that his family has suffered deeply since a 2015 raid on his business.
Liu’s supporters, including members of his church, attended the hearing to provide moral support. He said that his intent was always to uphold the values of integrity and responsibility, and he asked for mercy from the court.
U.S. District Judge R. Gary Klausner acknowledged that the family members of defendants often suffer, but he also stated that it is the defendant’s actions, not the court’s, that caused the harm. However, Klausner reduced the sentence due to Liu’s family situation.
The case against Liu and Dong dates back years, with federal authorities searching more than a dozen homes across Southern California in a 2015 crackdown on operators of businesses catering to Chinese women seeking to deliver their babies in the United States. Four years later, the pair and more than a dozen others were charged, including a woman who pleaded guilty and was sentenced to 10 months in prison for running a company known as You Win USA.
Such businesses have long operated in California and other states, catering not only to people from China but also from Russia, Nigeria, and elsewhere. While it is not illegal to visit the United States while pregnant, lying to U.S. consular and immigration officials about the reasons for travel on government documents is not permitted.
The main draw for these travelers has been the United States’ birthright citizenship, which many believe could help their children secure a U.S. college education and provide a sort of future insurance policy. This is especially true since the tourists themselves can apply for permanent residency once their American child turns 21.
However, President-elect Donald Trump has promised to end birthright citizenship once in office. Any such effort would face steep legal hurdles, but it has raised concerns among those who have been taking advantage of this system.
The case of Liu and Dong highlights the consequences of breaking the law and exploiting the system for personal gain. While it is understandable that parents want the best for their children, it is important to do so within the boundaries of the law.
The United States is a country built on the principles of integrity and responsibility, and it is crucial that these values are upheld by all who enter its borders. The actions of Liu and Dong not only undermined the integrity of the U.S. immigration system but also put their own families at risk.
It is also important to note that this case is not an isolated incident. Similar businesses have been operating in California and other states for years, catering to people from various countries. This raises concerns about the potential abuse of birthright citizenship and the need for stricter regulations to prevent such exploitation.
In the end, the sentence given to Liu serves as a reminder that the law must be respected and followed, regardless of one’s personal circumstances. While it is unfortunate that his family will suffer during his incarceration, it is ultimately his actions that have led to this outcome.
As we move forward, it is important for the U.S. government to address the issue of birthright citizenship and ensure that it is not being abused. At the same time, it is also crucial for individuals to understand the consequences of their actions and to respect the laws of the country they are visiting.
Los Angeles, a city known for its diversity and inclusivity, welcomes people from all over the world. However, it is important for everyone to remember that with this privilege comes the responsibility to abide
