Two Americans languish in Chinese prisons for over a decade on drug charges
Two Americans have spent over a decade in Chinese prisons after being convicted on drug charges. Dawn Michelle Hunt, a 54-year-old former flight attendant from Illinois, and Nelson Wells Jr., a 52-year-old father of three from Louisiana, were both sentenced for transporting narcotics. Their families recently testified before a U.S. congressional hearing, pushing for their release.
Hunt, an artist and ex-flight attendant, was arrested after unknowingly carrying a suitcase filled with hidden drugs. She had been tricked into acting as a 'blind mule' in an international scam. Now, her health has deteriorated severely, requiring blood transfusions and surgery—but she refuses treatment from prison doctors.
Wells Jr. was convicted after agreeing to transport another person’s luggage, which contained narcotics. He has since developed multiple serious conditions, including diabetes, high blood pressure, and frequent seizures. Both families appealed to U.S. lawmakers in September 2024, urging action. They are now calling on President Donald Trump to raise the issue during his upcoming summit with Chinese leader Xi Jinping. China’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs maintains that the two are serving sentences for serious drug offences. Officials insist their cases follow legal procedures. Meanwhile, the U.S. State Department confirms it is providing consular support and monitoring their welfare.
The families continue to push for their relatives’ return, citing worsening health conditions. The U.S. government remains engaged, offering assistance while advocating for their well-being. China, however, has shown no signs of reconsidering the sentences.
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