Cuba says Gross imported illegal satellite equipment . He is charged with acts against U.S. 's independence . The U.S. says Alan Gross was helping the Cuban community improve communications . `` Alan 's 88-year-old mother has just been diagnosed with lung cancer , '' she said in a written statement . He could face more than a year in prison if found guilty .
Cuba says Gross imported illegal satellite equipment . He is charged with acts against U.S. 's independence . The U.S. says Alan Gross was helping the Cuban community improve communications . He could face more than a year in prison if found guilty .