(Deyang, Sichuan Province – May 1, 2024) Elder Hao Ming of Deyang Qingcaodi Reformed Church has taken a stand against the recent court ruling that found him guilty of fraud. In a "declaration of disappearance" posted on Weibo, Elder Hao Ming expressed his disagreement with the verdict imposed by the Jingyang District Court of Deyang City, alongside Elder Wu Jiannan, asserting that faith should not be considered a crime.
The content of the declaration shed light on the circumstances leading to the court's decision, particularly concerning the financial support provided to Elder Wu Jiannan's wife. Elder Hao Ming clarified that the church's contributions were in accordance with the church's regulations, emphasizing that the funds were not obtained fraudulently, as alleged by the authorities.
The legal battle dates back to November 17, 2021, when Elder Wu Jiannan and retired Elder Hao Ming were arrested on suspicion of fraud, eventually leading to their formal arrests on Christmas Day of the same year. After a lengthy process that involved adjustments to the initial indictment, the case culminated in a verdict delivered by the Jingyang District People's Court on April 9, 2024. Elder Hao Ming received a three-year prison sentence with a five-year suspended sentence and a financial penalty, while Elder Wu Jiannan faced a similar sentence along with the obligation to return specific church contributions.
Despite the court's decision, Elder Hao Ming made it clear in his declaration that he does not acknowledge his guilt or the punishment imposed on him. While he expressed no intention to appeal the ruling, he conveyed his unwavering reliance on God’s righteousness in navigating through these challenging circumstances.
The case of Elders Hao Ming and Wu Jiannan continues to unfold, underscoring the complexities at the intersection of faith, legality, and personal conviction.
