Wyoming Student Arrested for Allegedly Poisoning Colleague’s Tea

A graduate student from Wyoming has been arrested for allegedly poisoning a colleague’s tea. Aili Wang, aged 32 and originally from China, faced accusations of attempting to flee the country after the incident came to light. Prosecutors assert Wang was seen trying to board a flight back to China at Los Angeles International Airport on October 6. Police seized laptops, electronic devices, and documents from her at the airport.

Authorities allege Wang was captured on surveillance video searching through the victim’s desk. The victim specializes in technology for disease treatment, similar to work Wang previously conducted in China. This case adds to existing allegations by U.S. officials that China has been involved in intellectual property theft from American universities.

Microbiology professor Mark Gomelsky, who oversees both students, expressed shock at the situation. He remains uncertain about the victim’s recovery prospects. Gomelsky described the experience as one of the most disturbing in his career.

Aili Wang was arrested at the airport with significant possessions that police believe are linked to the crime.

The investigation began when the victim experienced unusual symptoms and a strange taste in his tea. His wife and others tested the coffee maker water, discovering acrylamide, a toxic chemical Wang allegedly purchased online. Subsequently, police installed surveillance cameras that recorded Wang engaging in suspicious activities.

Wang reportedly had access to research data related to new disease treatment technologies. She did not share research areas with the victim and they were known not to get along.

Wang faces a felony aggravated assault and battery charge, potentially resulting in up to 10 years in prison and a $10,000 fine. A judge in Wyoming raised her bond to $1.5 million cash-only.

Authorities note acrylamide is not typically found in substantial quantities outside specific research contexts. The substance became linked to the victim’s condition after amateur investigators isolated it from coffee maker water.

The victim continues to suffer from ongoing symptoms. North-American university police received a sample for analysis that tested positive for acrylamide. Experts, including Tak Sumaya, support claims that the chemical’s presence indicates foul play.

This incident parallels a previous case in California where another individual was poisoned with a toxic substance. In that situation, a chemical engineer recorded her coworker adding cadmium to her food and water, resulting in a conviction.