Sen. Cruz Statement on Release of Sandy Phan-Gillis, Texas Resident Detained for Two Years in China
“Today, she is released and free again. This is a day of great celebration for her family and all Texans.”
WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Sen. Ted Cruz (R-Texas) released the following statement following the release of Sandy Phan-Gillis, a Texas resident who was detained in China for more than two years.
“For two years, one month, and nine days, Sandy was unjustly separated from her family and detained in China on baseless charges. Today, she is released and free again. This is a day of great celebration for her family and all Texans. I applaud the State Department and thank President Trump for his leadership in securing Sandy's release.
“It should be noted that Sandy's purpose in visiting China two years ago was to strengthen commercial and cultural exchanges on behalf of the city of Houston. The Chinese government - cynically and to the astonishment of many - perceived this cultural bridge-builder as a threat. Sandy was unjustly deprived of her liberty for two years, time during which she was denied basic legal protections and her loved ones lacked accurate information about her condition.
“I pray that the days ahead for Sandy and her family will be full of redeemed time and precious reunions. As a community leader in Houston for decades, Sandy returns to a town grateful for her safety, and I thank God she is home again. ”
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