Federal Magistrate Judge Sallie Kim has sparked controversy by granting cashless bail to Yinpiao Zhou, a Chinese national accused of using a hacked drone to photograph the restricted Vandenberg Space Force Base in California. The Department of Justice, which is appealing the decision, expressed concern over releasing Zhou, who was apprehended while attempting to board a flight to China.

Zhou, a legal U.S. resident, allegedly hacked his drone to bypass restrictions, enabling it to fly higher and access restricted airspace. Federal agents discovered photos of the base and searches related to drone regulations on Zhou’s phone. Prosecutors argue that his actions pose significant national security risks, with charges carrying a potential four-year prison sentence.

Kim’s ruling has drawn attention to her past decisions, including a high-profile case where she held former Education Secretary Betsy DeVos in contempt of court. In 2020, Kim fined DeVos $100,000 and threatened jail time over alleged violations of an injunction related to student loan collections.

Critics point to Kim’s judicial record as evidence of ideological motivations. Legal experts note that magistrates often see their roles as stepping stones to higher judicial appointments, suggesting such rulings may be calculated to gain favor with political allies.

Kim has served as a magistrate judge in California’s Northern District since 2015, a position she was appointed to by a Democrat-majority bench. Her current term runs until 2031, during which she has presided over both civil and criminal cases.

The Zhou case raises questions about judicial priorities and national security. Critics argue that releasing an individual accused of compromising U.S. military operations undermines efforts to protect sensitive sites and maintain justice.