Full Breakdown
Alleged Tea Poisoning by University of Wyoming Graduate Student
By Drooid · · How we work
Alleged Poisoning in a Laboratory Office
University of Wyoming officials announced that microbiology graduate student Aili Wang, a 32-year-old Chinese national, has been charged with felony aggravated assault and battery after an investigation linked her to the alleged poisoning of a colleague’s tea. Police allege Wang purchased the chemical acrylamide on eBay and used it to contaminate the victim’s beverage. Surveillance footage captured Wang rummaging through the victim’s desk and handling the victim’s mug. The victim, who holds pending patents and works on disease-treatment technology, began experiencing unexplained symptoms, prompting the victim’s spouse and others to test water from the coffee maker; testing reportedly detected the chemical.
Investigation Findings
An affidavit from the University of Wyoming Police Department details that officers recovered Wang’s laptops, electronic storage devices, and research documents during a search. The affidavit states that Wang and the victim had a contentious relationship, and that the victim had installed surveillance cameras in the office prior to the incident. Police claim the chemical was the first substance identified in the coffee-maker water, linking it to the victim’s symptoms. The charge was filed in Albany County Circuit Court after Wang was arrested at Los Angeles International Airport while attempting to return to China.
University Response
University President Shane Reeves issued a statement emphasizing the institution’s commitment to health and safety on campus. The university directed media inquiries to its publicly released statement, reaffirming that it takes such matters seriously and will cooperate with law-enforcement authorities.
Legal Consequences
Wyoming authorities have charged Wang with aggravated assault and battery, offenses punishable by up to ten years in prison and a $10,000 fine. The case remains pending in circuit court, and further proceedings will determine the final outcome.
