(Minghui.org) Ms. Qiao Jinhua was illegally tried in the Pingding County Court on May 20, 2015, for her belief in Falun Gong. Her lawyer pleaded “not guilty” on her behalf.

There was tight security, and only four family members were allowed into the courtroom.

Ms. Qiao's lawyer said in his statement that the “facts” presented by the prosecution were unclear, that there was insufficient evidence, and that the charges against Ms. Qiao lacked any legal basis.

Ms. Qiao was charged with “using a cult organization to undermine or sabotage law enforcement,” which is commonly used when prosecuting practitioners in China.

The lawyer asked that prosecutor Jia Yongsheng present the legal provision that states that “Falun Gong is a cult” and questioned the assertion that his client had undermined law enforcement. He asked that the law she had allegedly undermined be clearly stated. The prosecutor did not respond.

The lawyer argued that it is his client's constitutional right to practice Falun Gong and to possess Falun Gong books and related materials, and that neither can be used as evidence against his client.

"The charge," the lawyer contended, "is unsubstantiated. Ms. Qiao should be released immediately."