In a significant ruling against corruption within China’s disciplinary apparatus, the Shanghai First Intermediate People’s Court has sentenced former senior Hainan official Chen Xiaobo to 12 years imprisonment with a 3 million yuan ($430,000) fine for systematic bribery offenses. The verdict, delivered on Tuesday, concludes a high-profile case that exposes corruption within anti-graft institutions themselves.
Chen, who held dual powerful positions as deputy secretary of Hainan’s provincial discipline inspection commission and deputy director of the provincial supervisory commission, was convicted of accepting bribes exceeding 37 million yuan between 2007 and 2024. The court mandated complete confiscation of all illicit assets and accrued interest, which will be transferred to state treasury coffers.
Evidence presented during proceedings revealed Chen exploited his authoritative positions to facilitate unlawful benefits for various organizations and individuals. His corrupt activities included manipulating land acquisition processes, influencing construction contract awards, and orchestrating improper job appointments in exchange for substantial financial rewards.
Despite the ‘particularly large’ sums involved, the court acknowledged several mitigating circumstances. Judicial authorities noted Chen’s partial cooperation with investigators, voluntary admission to most charges, demonstrated remorse, and successful recovery of all illicit proceeds. The court characterized portions of his offenses as attempted acts, contributing to the reduced sentencing considerations.
