California Woman Jailed for Leading ‘Birth Tourism’ Scheme for Pregnant Chinese Women

WASHINGTON: A California woman received a three-year prison sentence for assisting Chinese women with “birth tourism” schemes in the US.

Woman Sentenced to Over Three Years

US District Judge R. Gary Klausner sentenced Phoebe Dong to 41 months in federal court in Los Angeles. She was immediately taken into custody. Dong and her husband, Michael Liu, were convicted of conspiracy and money laundering through their company, USA Happy Baby, in September.

Scheme Draws Renewed Attention Amid Citizenship Debate

The sentencing comes as birthright citizenship gains political attention with President Donald Trump returning to the White House. Trump issued an order attempting to restrict birthright citizenship, which a federal judge blocked as unconstitutional.

Business Targeted Pregnant Chinese Women

Dong and Liu were among those prosecuted during an Obama-era crackdown on “birth tourism.” Their company helped over 100 pregnant Chinese women deliver babies in the US. Under the 14th Amendment, children born in the US automatically become American citizens.

These women aimed to secure citizenship for their children, providing better opportunities for education and residency. Once children reach 21, they can sponsor their parents for residency.

Methods to Evade Detection

Prosecutors revealed Dong’s clients used loose clothing to hide pregnancies and flew into airports with fewer enforcement checks. Dong and Liu allegedly coached them on deceiving customs officials.

Emotional Hearing as Sentence Delivered

During her sentencing, Dong tearfully recalled her struggles under China’s one-child policy.

“I don’t want to lose my kids,” Dong told the court. “Please judge me fairly. I accept responsibility.”

Despite her plea, prosecutors sought a harsher sentence, citing the scheme’s scale and Dong’s knowledge of its implications.

Global Scope of Birth Tourism

Birth tourism businesses have operated in various US states, attracting people from China, Nigeria, and Russia. Dong’s case underscores ongoing concerns over exploitation of US immigration laws.