USC Grad and Realtor Nabbed at LAX in Alleged China Spy Scheme

A 34-year-old California realtor with ties to the University of Southern California was detained at Los Angeles International Airport on suspicion of working as a spy for the Chinese government. Federal prosecutors say she was trying to board a flight to Shanghai when she was arrested.

Before her arrest, the woman, who also went by the name Heather, appeared to live a glamorous lifestyle. She frequently posted photos from trips to Paris and outings along the West Coast on social media. Her husband, also a realtor at the same Orange County firm, shared similar posts showing restaurant visits and fan events.

According to an FBI affidavit, the suspect traveled to Seattle in September 2025 to surveil Ting-Yu Lai, the son of Taiwanese President Lai Ching-te. Investigators say text messages and WeChat conversations obtained from her iCloud account show her coordinating with two individuals believed to be Chinese government officials.

In one exchange, she reportedly told an official that she had spotted the target, referring to him as "that young one." When asked to join an audio call, she replied that she was already recording video of him from outside his home. Prosecutors say she sent photos, videos, and license plate details back to her contacts.

Her alleged communication with Chinese officials reportedly began in 2022. Conversations included discussions about work, family, and travel plans. By early 2025, messages referenced a potential meeting in Beijing. Just before the Seattle trip, she allegedly told an associate she would be heading north after finishing work in Los Angeles.

Authorities say she failed to register as a foreign agent, which is required by federal law. Her husband, when contacted by reporters, said he had no knowledge of the allegations and declined to comment further.