The trial of Zhang Xiaoning, accused of killing the prominent Chinese-American lawyer and democracy activist Jim Li, has officially commenced in New York. Last week, the jury was selected. On September 9th (Monday), the prosecution and defense began presenting their opening statements at the State Supreme Court in Queens. The prosecution presented the events leading to the fatal incident on March 14, 2022, alleging that Zhang Xiaoning issued a death threat to Jim Li before carrying out the attack: “Exchange my life for yours.”
The prosecution called a witness from the police force to testify. Officer Sha Zhan from the 109th Precinct provided footage from March 11, 2022, showing Zhang Xiaoning and Jim Li arguing at the law firm prior to the tragic events. In the video, after Li called the police, he mentioned that she had harassed him multiple times.
Assistant prosecutors from the Queens District Attorney’s Office highlighted Jim Li’s involvement in the 1989 Tiananmen Square pro-democracy protests in China before immigrating to the United States to become a lawyer specializing in political asylum cases. They argued that Zhang Xiaoning meticulously planned and executed the murder, demonstrating evidence of her deceit in asylum applications and violent behavior towards Li.
According to the assistant prosecutor, within 72 hours prior to the attack on March 14, 2022, Zhang Xiaoning had repeatedly threatened Jim Li with death: “I exchange my life for yours.”
On the day of the crime, Zhang first went to Li’s law office, waited downstairs upon learning of his absence, and then accompanied him to his office upon his return. After a brief conversation where Li declined further representation, Zhang, armed with a 9-inch knife, viciously attacked Li, inflicting multiple stab wounds. Li suffered fatal injuries, leading to his tragic death at a local hospital.
Following the incident, Zhang remained calm and composed, showing no signs of remorse. Prosecutor witnesses, including Officer Sezgim Cagirici, provided testimony and evidence from the altercation on March 11, revealing Zhang’s hostile behavior and vindictive motives prior to the fatal encounter.
The defense attorney for Zhang Xiaoning plans to introduce expert testimony on her mental health, arguing that her actions were influenced by psychological disorders, and she may not have fully comprehended the consequences of her behavior.
During the trial, as the defense attorney presented his arguments, Zhang Xiaoning interrupted, vehemently denying the accusations in imperfect English, claiming she did not intend to kill Li.
Members of the democracy and human rights advocacy community attended the trial as observers. One activist commented on the case, suggesting that Zhang Xiaoning’s actions were unfounded and that she was seeking excuses for her crime.
The trial is set to continue on September 10 (Tuesday), with more witnesses expected to testify.