A Chinese billionaire who cultivated a high-profile network including former British Prime Minister Sir Tony Blair was sentenced to 30 years in prison in the United States for unlawfully using nearly $1 billion in donations from his supporters. Guo Wengui, who fled China after facing corruption allegations, was found guilty on charges of racketeering and fraud by a Manhattan federal court.

Guo, in his late 50s, had reestablished himself in the U.S. as a vocal critic of the Chinese Communist Party (CCP), attracting a substantial following online that contributed approximately $1 billion to support his efforts. Prosecutors argued that Guo misappropriated these funds, diverting them to finance a lavish personal lifestyle rather than advancing a democratic cause.

During sentencing, Judge Analisa Torres stated that Guo “preyed on those seeking to bring democracy to China.” She imposed a sentence that matched the prosecution’s minimum recommendation and ordered Guo to forfeit $889 million. The U.S. government described him as more damaging than prominent fraudsters such as Sam Bankman-Fried and Bernie Madoff.

Evidence presented in court showed Guo spent money on a 50,000-square-foot mansion, a $1 million Lamborghini, and a $37 million yacht. Guo’s attorney, Melinda Sarafa, argued that these luxury items were intended as symbolic demonstrations of the freedoms possible without CCP rule, rather than personal indulgences.

Guo originally amassed his wealth as a property developer in China before fleeing amid official accusations. After relocating to the U.S., he leveraged social media platforms to build an extensive online base, positioning himself as a dissident voice.

Sir Tony Blair described Guo as a friend in 2017, though Blair’s institute has declined to comment on the sentencing. Guo’s conviction marks a significant development in the U.S. government’s efforts to address fraud cases involving individuals exploiting political activism for personal gain.