CNHRA EVENT RECORD · CNHRA-E-798033
Gao Zhen sculpture case: closed trial and 2026 sentence
Date
2024-08-26
Location
Yanjiao, Sanhe, Hebei (detention); Sanhe (trial)
Event Type
Detention · Trial · Sentencing · Travel Restriction
Human Rights Issues
Freedom of Expression · Right to a Fair Trial
Record ID
CNHRA-E-798033
Summary
Description
Gao was taken from his studio in Yanjiao, Hebei, on August 26, 2024 in a case concerning sculptures created years earlier. A one-day closed trial took place in March 2026, when he delivered his closing statement.[1][2]
On August 25, 2026, the court sentenced Gao to three years for infringing the reputation and honor of heroes and martyrs. Amnesty International reported the judgment and relayed family concerns about his health, including pain and episodes of fainting in custody.[1]
In his closing statement, Gao denied that his art constituted the alleged offense and questioned prosecuting earlier works under a subsequently introduced criminal provision. He connected the works to his experience, historical understanding and faith, and asked to return to his family.[2]
Developments
Detained during a visit to China
Gao was taken from his Yanjiao studio in Hebei. Amnesty reports that the New York resident was visiting family in China and that the case targeted works made years earlier.[1]
Closed trial and closing statement
HRIC records a one-day closed trial. Gao submitted a written closing statement explaining the works’ background, denying criminal wrongdoing and asking to reunite with his wife and child.[2]
Three-year prison sentence
The court imposed a three-year sentence for infringing the reputation and honor of heroes and martyrs. Amnesty published the sentencing news that day and described family exit restrictions and health concerns.[1]
Related People
Organizations
No organizations have been added.
Documents
No documents have been added to this record yet.
Sources
- [1]
CNHRA-S-272070Amnesty International
Evidence location: Background and judgment: August 2024 detention, August 25, 2026 three-year sentence in Sanhe; health and family exit restrictions.
- [2]
CNHRA-S-868438Human Rights in China
Evidence location: Editorial introduction and closing statement: March 2026 trial, 2005–2009 sculptures, faith and family.