Library User Swaps Rare Chinese Artwork for Fakes: US Officials Baffled

California Library User Faces $216,000 Theft Charge for Rare Chinese Manuscripts

Background of the Theft

Jeffery Ying, 38, used numerous aliases to access over 600‑year‑old classic works at the University of California, Los Angeles library.

Method of the Deception

Ying checked out genuine books, then a few days later returned blank copies that matched the originals.

• Blank manuscripts designed to look like the originals.
• Pre‑made asset tags that could be swapped for real marks.

Detection by the Library

Library staff noticed missing titles and traced the latter visitor to a self‑identified “Alan Fujimori.”

Law Enforcement Raid

At the hotel where Ying stayed, detectives seized dummy manuscripts and asset tags.

Legal Consequences

• Ying faces up to ten years in federal prison if convicted.
• He is held in state custody currently.

Implications for Chinese Art Market

China’s art scene is expanding rapidly. The theft underscores the vulnerability of rare cultural artifacts as private collectors seek to claim national heritage.