China continues to persecute those who would push for freedom and democracy.

During his trial, Xu (Wei) told the court he had been brutally beaten and tortured with electric shocks to his genitals after refusing to admit guilt, according to Human Rights in China.

"His health is rapidly deteriorating because of the abuse he suffered previously during his two years in custody while awaiting sentencing," the group said in a statement.

Xu and his three co-defendants had set up an internet-based group, the New Youth Society, which was dedicated to exploring democracy and social reform.

Amnesty International and Human Rights Watch listen up: This is a gross violation of human rights. This isn't being done to the terrorists at Guantanamo Bay, so give it a rest.