After angering local officials in his village in Shandong, Mr. Chen was convicted of charges that included destruction of property and gathering crowds to obstruct traffic and sentenced to four years in prison.

WSJ: Deal Sought for Chinese Activist to Study in U.S.

In 2006 he was sentenced to four years in prison for charges including intentional destruction of property and gathering crowds to obstruct traffic charges that his supporters say were trumped up by local officials.

WSJ: Blind Chinese Activist Departs for U.S.

He was detained in 2005 and in 2006 was sentenced to four years in prison for charges including intentional destruction of property and gathering crowds to obstruct traffic charges that his supporters say were trumped up by local officials.

WSJ: Chinese Activist's Departure Brings New Questions