Missouri Attorney General Andrew Bailey has expanded his investigation into the Chinese Service Center in St. Louis to ensure its compliance with Missouri law. He issued a civil investigative demand after obtaining evidence suggesting that the service center violated the Missouri Merchandising Practices Act.
"As Attorney General, I will enforce the laws as written, which includes holding accountable those who violate the law by taking advantage of Missouri non-profits," said Attorney General Bailey. "Our investigation centers on allegations that the communist government of China is attempting to establish a footprint in the Show Me State. My office takes these allegations very seriously and will continue to fight for and protect Missouri citizens and consumers."
The civil investigative demand requires records from the Chinese Service Center (CSC) related to their solicitation of donations and other activities. The CSC reportedly has close associations with the government of the People’s Republic of China (PRC).
"This investigation will inquire into, among other things, the acts and omissions of Subject(s) in connection with the solicitation and reporting of charitable funds in or from Missouri. The Attorney General has reason to believe that the Subject(s) have engaged in, are engaging in, or are about to engage in deception, fraud, false promises, misrepresentation, unfair practices, and/or the concealment, suppression, or omission of material facts in connection with the solicitation of charitable funds," states the CID.
Attorney General Bailey initially launched this investigation in 2023 following a referral from a member of Missouri’s Congressional delegation after allegations surfaced that China was creating a global network of "service centers" loyal to its Communist Party aimed at advancing its foreign policy objectives. Independent sources estimate there may be over 100 such service centers worldwide. Concerns have been raised that some centers may also serve as outposts targeting individuals who formerly lived in China.
With today's CID issuance, Attorney General Bailey is subpoenaing documents to further investigate alleged ties between the Chinese government, its Communist Party, and CSC organized under Missouri state law.