In 2023, California realtor Wanying “Heather” Zhang attended a San Francisco event celebrating President Xi Jinping’s visit. At the event, she was spotted wearing red caps alongside a Chinese-American organization leader linked to Beijing. Subsequently, pro-Chinese Communist Party activists attacked protesters, though Zhang herself was not implicated in any physical confrontations.
The 34-year-old faces federal charges for allegedly surveilling the Taiwanese president’s son in Washington at the request of Chinese government officials. The FBI claims they have Zhang’s text exchanges with Chinese intelligence, detailing plans to secretly film Lai Ting-yu and his family in Seattle.
A CBS News investigation drew parallels between Zhang’s background and that of alleged spy Fang “Christine” Fang, known for her ties with ex-congressman Eric Swalwell. Both attended China’s University of International Relations, an institution tied to the Ministry of State Security.
After relocating to the U.S., Zhang pursued studies at the University of Southern California and obtained her real estate license in 2016. Over ten years, she built a successful career, listing numerous properties with JC Pacific Corp. She and her husband purchased a home for $5.65 million in 2024, reselling it for $6 million in 2025. Her social media profiles showcase a luxurious lifestyle with high-end fashion, dining, and travel.
Zhang engaged in activities with Chinese-American advocacy groups. In 2022, she participated in an “entrepreneurship competition” and was recognized as a “young entrepreneur” among Chinese elites in the U.S. Her association with the All American Chinese Association (AACA) linked her to figures with connections to the Chinese government.
“U.S.-based groups linked to the Communist Party’s United Front through their key personnel keep coming up in federal foreign-agent cases,” remarked Jacqueline Deal of State Armor.
By 2025, Zhang allegedly embraced her role as a Chinese agent. The FBI affidavit suggests she met with government officials in China, and communication records showed discussions about targeting a Taiwanese official. Zhang visited China, where she purportedly received her assignment to surveil the Taiwanese president’s son. She was arrested in October 2026 at Los Angeles International Airport trying to board a flight to Shanghai. During her court appearance, she wore designer workout attire.
FBI assistant director Roman Rozhavsky emphasized the severity of China’s covert operations in the U.S., stating, “Zhang’s arrest highlights China’s reach to further its authoritarian objectives.” A Taiwanese presidential spokesperson criticized actions that suppress freedom and expressed gratitude to U.S. authorities for their support and commitment to combating cross-border oppression.
The Chinese Foreign Ministry dismissed accusations of espionage, alleging they were amplified to smear China.