(Minghui.org) Mr. Liu Guisheng (刘贵生) was recently sentenced to three years for practicing Falun Gong and distributing Shen Yun DVDs. His family vowed to appeal the verdict, despite a police threat to never return the confiscated family car.

Police cars and officers surrounded the courthouse hours before Mr. Liu's trial began on December 9, 2014. Many local Falun Gong practitioners showed up to lend him their support.

The attorney pleaded not guilty on behalf of Mr. Liu, noting that it is a constitutional right to practice one's spiritual belief, in this case, Falun Gong. He pointed out that it is also not illegal to share information about Shen Yun, a performing arts show focused on reviving traditional Chinese culture.

During the proceedings, the procurator could be heard very clearly, but the lawyer's microphone volume was intentionally set very low. The judge refused to have the volume adjusted, despite protests from Mr. Liu's family.

Mr. Liu defended himself, telling the court about how he had benefited since he started practicing Falun Gong. He used to smoke and drink, but gave them up after beginning the practice. He was arrested on July 1, 2014, while distributing Shen Yun DVDs.

Updated information in Chinese only:http://www.minghui.org/mh/articles/2014/12/16/二零一四年十二月十六日大陆综合消息-301557.html