The trial of Zhang Xiaoning, who is accused of killing prominent New York lawyer Li Jinjin, entered its seventh day on September 18th (Wednesday). Both the prosecution and defense teams hired forensic psychiatrists to testify. They both diagnosed Zhang Xiaoning with “unspecified schizophrenia spectrum and other mental illnesses,” suggesting she suffers from delusions. During the psychiatric evaluation, Zhang Xiaoning mentioned that she bought the knife used in the crime at the behest of pro-democracy activists, which sparked outrage among democracy advocates in the courtroom, with one murmuring, “Nonsense!”
The prosecution’s psychiatrist stated that his diagnosis aligned with that of the defense psychiatrist Goldsmith – the defendant suffers from other schizophrenia spectrum disorders, distinct from schizophrenia. He explained that if an individual exhibits only some symptoms within a defined timeframe, they may be classified as having other schizophrenia spectrum disorders. He added, “I found that she indeed harbored delusions about those photos and experienced mistreatment due to her actions.”
The prosecutor’s psychiatrist asserted that Zhang does not have schizophrenia but rather an “unspecified schizophrenia spectrum disorder.” According to him, on March 11 and March 14, 2022, Zhang was delusional.
The cross-examination revealed Zhang’s tendency to shift blame onto others during her psychiatric evaluations.
During the questioning of the defense psychiatrist Goldsmith by the assistant prosecutor, the reason for Zhang Xiaoning carrying a knife to Li Jinjin’s office was raised. The defense psychiatrist stated that Zhang cited pro-democracy activists advising her to protect herself as the reason for carrying the knife.
Moreover, in a discussion during the hearing, it was disclosed that Zhang had mentioned being taken to a mental hospital in China due to a complaint from a man she dated, claiming she made numerous calls to him daily. The prosecutor’s psychiatrist indicated that Zhang believed Li Jinjin could influence pro-democracy activists to delete her photos from the internet, which she felt led to her being bullied and abused. When Li did not comply with her requests, Zhang became angry.
As the trial continued, insights about Zhang’s actions and mindset emerged, shedding light on her motivations and interactions leading up to the incident. The court learned about her perception of events and the conflicts she experienced with Li Jinjin.
The trial witnessed attendees reacting to the unfolding testimonies, with individuals expressing their opinions and observations about Zhang’s behavior and attitudes towards democracy activists and her actions during the crime. The courtroom atmosphere was tense as the prosecution presented its case against Zhang, depicting her as someone trying to evade responsibility and maligning pro-democracy advocates.
The judge instructed the jury to consider the testimonies of both psychiatrists carefully in assessing Zhang’s state of mind during the crime.
Following the day’s proceedings, observers from the pro-democracy movement expressed skepticism regarding Zhang’s motives and speculated about potential external influences driving her actions. The testimony and evidence presented raised questions about Zhang’s mindset and her deep-seated resentment towards democracy advocates, leading to concerns about possible manipulation or indoctrination influencing her behavior.
The trial is set to resume on September 19th as the jury continues deliberations in this high-profile case.