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http://www.ice.gov/graphics/news/newsreleases/articles/051206seattle.htm
News Release
December 6, 2005
BELLEVUE MAN PLEADS GUILTY TO VIOLATING ARMS EXPORT ACT
Suspect illegally exported night vision goggles to Taiwan - Co-conspirator sent them to China
SEATTLE – A Bellevue man pleaded guilty in U.S. District Court in Seattle today to charges that he illegally exported night vision goggles and camera lenses to Taiwan. The military equipment was ultimately shipped to the People’s Republic of China.
Howard Hsy, 69, was charged with violating the terms of the Arms Export Control Act as a result of a joint investigation by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) and the Federal Bureau of Investigation.
Investigators say that during 2002 and 2003, Hsy conspired with others to export night vision goggles and camera lenses to a contact in Taiwan. The equipment in question is primarily used by military pilots to fly and navigate at night. Exporting these items requires a license and written approval from the U.S. State Department, which Hsy did not have.
Documents filed in the case reveal that Hsy was approached by an unnamed co-conspirator in Taiwan who asked Hsy to acquire the following military items: Imaging Systems F4949 “Generation III” night-vision goggles; HGV 55/P Helmet Mount Assemblies; and Nightmate CCTV Adapter “Generation III” night-vision camera lenses. Hsy, Donald Shull, and a third Seattle area co-conspirator purchased the items through a front company they had in Auburn, Washington. Over the course of about 18 months, the items were purchased and delivered to the co-conspirator in Taiwan. On two occasions, the co-conspirator in Taiwan came to Seattle to pick-up the goods. Hsy personally carried the goods to Taiwan on the third and final delivery. Hsy and Shull later learned that the Taiwan co-conspirator had shipped the military items to China.
Shull, who pleaded guilty to Conspiracy to Violate the Export Administration Act in October, will be sentenced February 17, 2006. Hsy’s sentencing is set for February 23, 2006 before U.S. District Judge Thomas S. Zilly. Hsy faces up to five years in prison and a $250,000 fine.
-- ICE --