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“Espionage in the Water Supply: Trial Postponed Amid Battle Over Keeping Secrets Under Wraps”

The trial of a former Hydro-Québec worker accused of economic espionage is at a standstill due to disputes over the utility’s confidential information.

Hydro-Québec has requested a pause in proceedings to shield certain details from public disclosure, leading to a delay in the trial.

Specific details regarding the utility’s arguments are currently under a publication ban, preventing their discussion in public.

Yuesheng Wang, 38, is the defendant in this high-profile case, which marks the first instance of someone being charged with economic espionage under Canada’s Security of Information Act.

Wang maintains his innocence, with the charges against him yet to be tested in court. Alongside the economic espionage allegations, he also faces charges under the Criminal Code related to computer fraud, illicitly obtaining trade secrets, and breach of trust.

In a recent development, Wang faced two additional charges in April 2024 for allegedly engaging in preparatory actions on behalf of a foreign entity and sharing his plans with said entity — the People’s Republic of China.

The proceedings are overseen by Quebec court Judge Jean-Philippe Marcoux.