Jae is still in jail and his appeal has still not been heard. There have been a number of articles written about his situation, so the case's visibility has been heightened. According to friends, the Chinese lawyer doesn't seem able to do more than the minimum--he has a wife and children to think about.

Friends and family have gone to see Jae a few times but as yet have not been able to speak with him. On their last trip they were able to drop off money so that Jae could get more than the minimum in food and toiletries, but that was it. They are planning another trip on August first. They have an appointment with a judge, but they have met with officials before and have never gotten access to see Jae.

From what I understand there is an ongoing investigation into the case in China and there is supposed to be a hearing by the end of August. But there is no guarantee. His appeal has been postponed many times before so I don't know if this is any different.