Chen Wensheng, a Christian from Hengyang, Hunan, has been sentenced to 1 year and 7 months in prison for organizing and funding illegal gatherings. The verdict was announced on June 20, 2024.

Chen was intercepted by authorities at Shanghai Airport on August 29, 2023, while attempting to fly to Jeju Island, South Korea. He was sent back to Hengyang and detained for 15 days. Following his administrative detention, the Shigu Branch of the Hengyang Municipal Public Security Bureau detained him on suspicion of "organizing and funding illegal gatherings." He was held at the Hengdong County Detention Center.

On October 25, Chen was formally arrested by the Shigu Branch of the Hengyang Public Security Bureau and continued to be detained at the same facility. His case was heard at the Shigu District People’s Court of Hengyang City on April 18, 2024.

On the day of the trial, Chen's relatives and friends arrived at the court only to find heavy police presence and heightened security measures. Police cars were stationed at the gate, about 40 special police officers were present, and various staff members totaling around 70 or 80 people were on high alert. The street where the court is located was blocked off under the pretext of an "exercise."

Supporters from Chen's group were driven away when they attempted to attend the trial. Christians in Hengyang who wished to observe proceedings were also dissuaded by relevant departments. It is reported that hundreds of personnel were deployed for security purposes during the trial.

Chen did not hire a lawyer; instead, he was assigned a legal aid lawyer by authorities but primarily defended himself in court. Upon learning his sentence today, Chen expressed his intention to appeal.