Family Has Requested Freedom for Chicago Citizen in China
The relatives of a Chicago woman imprisoned abroad for 12 years are seeking intervention from President Trump.
Updated on Sept. 26, 2026 in Drug Crime
The family of 55-year-old Dawn Hunt has petitioned President Trump to negotiate the release of two American citizens currently held in Chinese prisons. The request follows the January 2026 death of Gene Hunt, as families seek a diplomatic solution during the president's meeting with President Xi Jinping.
Why it matters
Families of imprisoned citizens believe that high-level direct engagement between President Trump and President Xi Jinping represents a critical opportunity to secure the release of detainees. This diplomatic push serves as a final effort for relatives to bring their loved ones home after years of incarceration.
Dawn Hunt has remained in prison for 12 years following a 2014 arrest for methamphetamine possession. Her initial death penalty sentence with a two-year reprieve was eventually commuted to life imprisonment.
The players
Dawn Hunt
She is a 55-year-old Chicago resident who has been imprisoned in China since 2014.
President Donald Trump
He is the current President of the United States.
President Xi Jinping
He is the President of the People's Republic of China.
Nelson Wells Jr.
He is another American citizen who is currently imprisoned in China.
Gene Hunt
He was a family member of Dawn Hunt who passed away in January 2026.
The details
Dawn Hunt was arrested in 2014 after being allegedly lured into a fraudulent sweepstakes scheme that promised a trip to Australia. Methamphetamines were found hidden in a purse she was allegedly gifted during the contest, leading to her prolonged incarceration.
Timeline
Dawn Hunt was arrested in China in 2014.
A humanitarian request for the release of the prisoners was submitted in May 2025.
Gene Hunt passed away in January 2026.
President Trump met with President Xi Jinping in September 2026.
Legal Context
The advocacy for these individuals follows the established pattern of private citizens appealing to the U.S. government hostage recovery and wrongful detention protocols. This case reflects the ongoing challenges of resolving international detentions through bilateral diplomatic channels.
The family's advocacy highlights the complexities Chicago residents face when legal disputes occur in foreign jurisdictions. While this case remains a diplomatic matter, it serves as a stark reminder of the risks associated with international travel and foreign legal systems for the local community.
The takeaway
Families continue to utilize high-level summits as a platform to raise awareness for detained citizens. Implementing clear communication with the State Department and local representatives remains a standard path for families navigating international legal crises.
Further reading
Learn more about local advocacy and legal developments in Drug Crime.
Source note: This article includes information reported by NBC Chicago.
