Federal authorities have charged Linda Sun, a former high-ranking aide to New York Governor Kathy Hochul, with multiple crimes including acting as an undisclosed agent for the Chinese government. The indictment, unsealed on Tuesday, reveals a sweeping array of allegations against Sun and her husband, Chris Hu, in what authorities describe as a severe breach of trust and national security.
Linda Sun, who served as deputy chief of staff to Hochul and held various other prominent positions within the New York state government, faces accusations of violating the Foreign Agents Registration Act (FARA), visa fraud, alien smuggling, and conspiring to commit money laundering. Her husband, Chris Hu, a businessman, has been charged with similar financial crimes, including money laundering conspiracy and bank fraud.
The charges, brought by U.S. Attorney Breon Peace, allege that Sun used her position to benefit the Chinese Communist Party (CCP), engaging in activities that included obstructing access to high-level state officials for representatives of the Taiwanese government and facilitating unauthorized travel for PRC officials. Prosecutors assert that Sun's actions were part of a broader scheme involving millions of dollars in illicit financial transactions.
Federal investigators raided the couple's Long Island home in July, uncovering evidence that they allegedly laundered proceeds from their illicit activities to purchase luxury assets, including a $4.1 million home in Manhasset and a $2.1 million condominium in Honolulu. The indictment also details purchases of high-end vehicles, including a 2024 Ferrari.
Sun's alleged actions reportedly included securing unauthorized invitation letters from the governor's office, which were then used to facilitate illegal entry for Chinese officials into the U.S. These activities, according to the indictment, were designed to further the interests of the Chinese government and the CCP. Sun and Hu are accused of using their influence to secure economic benefits, such as tickets to high-profile events and employment opportunities for Sun's family in China.
Linda Sun's tenure with the New York state government began over a decade ago, with roles spanning several administrations and agencies. She initially worked as chief of staff in Representative Grace Meng's office and later served under former Governor Andrew Cuomo as director of Asian American affairs. Her most recent position was deputy chief of staff to Governor Hochul before her termination in March 2023 following the discovery of misconduct.
Hochul's office has responded to the charges, stating that Sun's employment was terminated as soon as misconduct was discovered, and the case was immediately reported to law enforcement. "We have fully cooperated with the investigation and will continue to support efforts to address these serious allegations," said Avi Small, Hochul's press secretary.
The indictment against Sun and Hu underscores a troubling trend of alleged espionage and corruption linked to foreign governments, reflecting the broader geopolitical tensions between the U.S. and China. The case has drawn significant attention, highlighting the potential for high-level infiltration and misconduct within sensitive government positions.
As the legal process unfolds, the implications of these charges are expected to resonate widely, given the high-profile nature of the defendants and the seriousness of the allegations. The case represents a critical moment in U.S.-China relations and underscores the ongoing need for vigilance against foreign interference in domestic affairs.
Both Linda Sun and Chris Hu are scheduled to appear in court later today. Their legal representatives have yet to issue public statements regarding the charges. The unfolding case will likely continue to draw scrutiny and may further influence discussions on national security and foreign influence in the U.S.
