China Reduces Death Sentence for Canadian Robert Schellenberg
China’s Supreme People’s Court has announced a significant decision concerning Canadian Robert Schellenberg. His death sentence for drug smuggling has been overturned, bringing a renewed focus on his case.
Background on Robert Schellenberg
Robert Schellenberg, a Canadian citizen, was initially sentenced to 15 years in prison in 2018 for his involvement in an international drug-trafficking operation. In 2019, following heightened diplomatic tensions between Canada and China, his case was retried, and he was handed a death sentence.
Timeline of Events
- 2014: Accused of conspiring to smuggle 222 kilograms of methamphetamine from China to Australia.
- 2018: Found guilty of drug smuggling and sentenced to 15 years in prison.
- 2019: Death sentence imposed after a retrial, closely following the arrest of Huawei executive Meng Wanzhou in Canada.
- 2021: A Chinese court in Shenyang rejects his appeal against the death sentence.
- 2023: Supreme People’s Court overturns the death sentence.
Reactions to the Decision
Family spokesperson Anna Marie White shared optimism regarding the recent developments. “It is obviously very encouraging to see this development,” she stated, indicating hopes for a re-trial.
Global Affairs Canada acknowledged the decision but refrained from discussing specifics. They emphasized Canada’s ongoing advocacy for clemency in cases involving Canadians facing the death penalty.
Diplomatic Context
The case has unfolded against a backdrop of strained relations between Canada and China. Following Meng Wanzhou’s arrest in Canada in late 2018, tensions escalated, leading to the detention of Canadians Michael Kovrig and Michael Spavor under ambiguous national security charges. Both men were released in 2021.
Prime Minister Mark Carney has sought to address these diplomatic challenges. His recent visit to China resulted in an agreement to alleviate certain trade restrictions. This meeting was also a part of efforts to reset bilateral relations.
Historical Context of Drug Offences in China
China maintains strict penalties for drug-related offences, including the death penalty. Notably, four Canadians were executed last year under similar charges. Schellenberg’s case underscores the serious implications of drug trafficking laws in China, particularly for foreign nationals.
Despite his claims of innocence, Schellenberg’s history of drug-related offences in Canada, including a two-year sentence in 2012, may complicate perceptions of his case.
