Who is Jinchao Wei? US Navy Sailor Found Guilty of Selling Secrets to China

US Navy sailor Jinchao Wei has been found guilty of spying for China by a federal court. Wei, who was serving on the USS Essex, used his position to pass sensitive information about American warships, their operations, and even weaknesses to a Chinese intelligence officer.

Wei, a naturalized US citizen originally from China, could now face a life sentence. His official sentencing has been scheduled for December 1, 2025.

Who is Jinchao Wei?

Wei worked as a machinist’s mate on the USS Essex, an amphibious assault ship docked at Naval Base San Diego. His role gave him access to key mechanical and propulsion systems of the vessel. Prosecutors said he abused this access to collect and share details about US Navy activities.

According to the Justice Department, Wei came to the US from China, became a citizen, and enlisted in the Navy. Officials said that at the same time he was building a career in the military, he was secretly helping China gain military intelligence.

How Did the Espionage Start?

Court documents revealed that in February 2022, Wei was contacted on social media by someone he believed to be a shipbuilding enthusiast. The man, in reality, was a Chinese intelligence officer pretending to work for a state-owned shipbuilding company.

Soon after, Wei confided to a Navy friend that this “enthusiast” had offered him $500 a day in exchange for updates about ship movements. Wei admitted to the friend that he knew it was “clear espionage.”

At one point, prosecutors said Wei promised to provide China with information on the number and training of U.S. Marines set to participate in an upcoming international naval exercise.

What Did the Prosecutors Say?

Prosecutors called Wei’s actions a serious betrayal of the United States. They argued that he took advantage of the trust given to him as a sailor and used his security clearance to endanger national security.

They also noted that Wei continued pursuing U.S. citizenship while secretly working with Chinese officials. However, the jury acquitted him of one charge related to unlawfully obtaining citizenship.

What Do Wei’s Lawyers Say?

Wei’s defense attorney, Sean Jones, acknowledged that his client had made mistakes but argued that charging him under the Espionage Act was excessive.

Jones said Wei was misled by someone he thought was a friend and never had anti-American intentions. He stressed that Wei was not motivated by hatred against the United States but by poor judgment. His legal team is now considering an appeal.

What Happens Next?

Wei will remain in custody until his sentencing on December 1, 2025. If given the maximum penalty, he could spend the rest of his life in prison. The case has sparked major discussions about foreign espionage risks inside the U.S. military.