SAIPAN — Former Imperial Pacific International Chairwoman Cui Lijie made her initial appearance in immigration court on Saipan on this morning, appearing by video as Judge Clarence Wagner presided remotely from Honolulu over proceedings to determine whether she should be released on bond. Her removal proceedings are scheduled for January 27 at 10 a.m.
Cui, represented by attorney Charles McDonald of Guam, had turned herself in to ICE on Tuesday, January 13. During the hearing, it emerged that she had twice voluntarily approached ICE the week prior before being detained. The Department of Homeland Security attorney raised concerns about her compliance with court orders, referencing Chief Judge Ramona Manglona’s comments in a previous case.
Despite acknowledging that she was once considered a billionaire from her casino ventures in Macau, Cui stated that she currently does not have much net worth. The court is set to review additional transcripts and evidence before making a final bond decision.
For now, the next court date is scheduled, and Cui remains in custody as both sides prepare for the upcoming proceedings.
Watch Brad Ruszala’s post-hearing recap on the NMI News Service Facebook page and YouTube channel.
