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China Convicts Researchers in Gene-Edited Baby Controversy

Associated Press

   BEIJING - Three researchers involved in the births of genetically
   edited babies have been sentenced for practicing medicine illegally,
   Chinese state media said Monday.

   The report by Xinhua news agency said lead researcher He Jiankui was
   sentenced to three years and fined 3 million yuan ($430,000).

   Two other people received lesser sentences and fines. Zhang Renli was
   sentenced to two years in prison and fined 1 million yuan. Qin Jinzhou
   received an 18-month sentence, but with a two-year reprieve, and a
   500,000 yuan fine.

   He, the lead researcher, said 13 months ago that he had helped make the
   world's first genetically edited babies, twin girls born in November
   2018. The announcement sparked a global debate over the ethics of gene
   editing.

   He also was involved in the birth of a third gene-edited baby.

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