B.C. journalist tormented by Chinese tycoon’s followers relieved after jail sentence

Benson Gao, a British Columbia journalist, voiced significant relief following the 30-year jail sentence handed down to Chinese tycoon Guo Wengui for fraud. Guo's followers had subjected Gao to a relentless campaign of harassment, including a 77-day protest outside his home in 2020 that escalated to violence against a friend.

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tremendous relief

Guo, who fled China a decade ago and positioned himself as a critic of the Communist Party, preyed on individuals seeking to support democracy in China, Judge Analisa Torres stated. She noted that Guo called upon his supporters to harass and intimidate those who spoke out against him. Gao, who described Guo as the leader of a "financial cult," found his family's life thrown into chaos by the protests, which were livestreamed day and night. He and his wife endured constant slander and insults, facing unimaginable pressure.

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overwhelmed with mixed emotions

Two of Guo's supporters admitted to assaulting Gao's friend, Louis Huang, who was later awarded over $156,000 in damages. Gao believes he paid a high price for opposing Guo, who falsely accused him of being a Chinese spy. "I also learned a lesson over the nine years: it’s too risky exposing crimes made by someone with vast resources," Gao said, adding that he was grateful for his wife's support. While he has no regrets, Gao will cease reporting on Guo and will shift his YouTube channel's focus to other social issues.

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pain and torture