Liu, CEO of JD.com and Owner of JD Gaming, Cleared of Sexual Harassment Charges
Richard Liu, the founder and CEO of JD.com and owner of JD Gaming, has been announced by Hennepin County Attorney Mike Freeman as not being charged in a sexual harassment investigation. This news was first reported by the Star Tribune.
Background and Investigation
Liu was arrested on August 31 following an allegation of rape made by a University of Minnesota student. According to reports, Liu met the student at a social event for a doctoral management program he was attending. He allegedly followed her home and assaulted her. After several months of investigation, the Minneapolis Police Department determined that there were significant evidentiary challenges that prevented a formal charge.
Insufficient Evidence
In a press release, Freeman stated, “As in many sexual assault incidents, it was a complex situation. After reviewing surveillance video, text messages, police body camera video, and witness statements, it became evident that we could not meet the burden of proof required for charges to be filed.”
International Implications
If charged, Liu may have faced tensions between China and the U.S., as China does not allow extradition. This issue gained attention in November when a top-ranking Chinese tech executive was arrested in Canada based on a US extradition request. This led to an international controversy and resulted in several individuals being detained in China in response.
Positive Market Reaction
Following the announcement from the attorney’s office, shares in JD.com rose. With the charges dropped, Liu will likely avoid any further legal repercussions.
Richard Liu, JD.com, JD Gaming, sexual harassment investigation, University of Minnesota, rape allegation, Hennepin County Attorney, charges dropped, international controversy