Prosecutors seek bail for suspect who wants to donate stem cells to sick brother

Prosecutors in Hongkou District are helping a suspect in custody to get out on bail to donate his stem cells to perhaps save the life of his brother who suffers from leukemia.

A hearing Tuesday afternoon discussed his custody and made an proposal to the police, asking for a change of custodial status to residential surveillance. Police will make a decision in a few days.

The 56-year-old was detained by Hongkou police in September on a charge of theft and is now in a detention house.One of his elder brothers has been diagnosed with stomach cancer and leukemia. Test shows that the suspect's bone marrow is compatible with his brother's, opening the possibility of a stem cell transplant to save his brother.

The doctor attending the hearing explained his brother's condition and explained that the suspect was the only well-matched donor. The suspect has since pleaded guilty and expressed remorse via a live remote video system, hoping to expedite the transplant.

Prosecutors concurred with the application and suggested police facilitate the process.