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Gao Zhen Sentenced to Three Years Under Hero Law

8/26/2026

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Summary

Gao Zhen Sentenced

Sanhe City People’s Court sentenced New York-based artist Gao Zhen to three years in prison.
He was charged under the 2018 Law on the Protection of Heroes, strengthened in 2021.
The court cited his 2005-2009 sculptures, including “Mao’s Guilt” (2009) and the “Miss Mao” series.
Amnesty International condemned the ruling and called for Gao’s immediate, unconditional release.

Summary

Gao Zhen Appeals

U.S. diplomats were denied entry to Gao Zhen’s sentencing hearing at Sanhe City Court.
Gao Zhen announced he will appeal his conviction and three-year prison sentence.
He suffers lumbar spine disease, knee fluid buildup and has collapsed multiple times while in custody.
Since May 2025, his contact with his wife and son has been severely limited.
The Chinese foreign ministry declined to comment on the sentencing when approached by reporters.

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Gao Zhen Sentenced

Sanhe City People’s Court sentenced New York-based artist Gao Zhen to three years in prison.
He was charged under the 2018 Law on the Protection of Heroes, strengthened in 2021.
The court cited his 2005-2009 sculptures, including “Mao’s Guilt” (2009) and the “Miss Mao” series.
Amnesty International condemned the ruling and called for Gao’s immediate, unconditional release.

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