The defense team for Zhao, who has pleaded guilty to violating the Bank Secrecy Act, has filed a document opposing the U.S. Department of Justice's request to prevent Zhao from leaving the country before his sentencing in February. This document argues that Zhao should be allowed to leave the U.S. based on the fact that he voluntarily came to the country to enter his guilty plea, which demonstrates that he is not a flight risk.
The filing highlights that the Magistrate Judge overseeing Zhao's case, Judge Brian Tsuchida, has already acknowledged the significance of Zhao's appearance in court. This recognition further supports the defense's argument that Zhao should be permitted to leave the U.S. prior to his sentencing.
In conclusion, the defense contends that Zhao's willingness to come to the U.S. and plead guilty demonstrates his commitment to the legal process and indicates that he is not a flight risk. Therefore, they argue that he should be allowed to leave the country before his sentencing in February.
