Linda Sun, a former deputy chief of staff to New York Governor Kathy Hochul, has been accused by the U.S. of serving as an agent for the Chinese government. Attorney Breon Peace. The charges include violations of the Foreign Agents Registration Act, visa fraud, alien smuggling, and money laundering conspiracy. Sun’s husband, Chris Hu, is also facing charges of money laundering conspiracy, bank fraud conspiracy, and misuse of identification.
Federal investigators raided their Long Island home in July. The indictment alleges that Sun acted as a covert agent for the Chinese government, participating in activities that furthered the interests of the Chinese Communist Party (CCP).Prosecutors claim Sun secured unauthorized invitation letters to facilitate the travel of Chinese officials to the U.S. and sought to influence New York’s political landscape, including obstructing Taiwanese diplomacy and shaping the state’s COVID-19 response.
Sun and Hu allegedly received significant financial benefits, including millions in transactions related to Chinese business activities, travel perks, and luxury items. Sun is accused of using her position to block Taiwanese diplomatic efforts and ensure that former Governor Andrew Cuomo praised China for its aid during the pandemic.
Hochul’s office terminated Sun’s employment in March 2023 upon discovering misconduct and reported it to law enforcement. Sun and Hu were arrested at their Long Island residence and are scheduled to appear in court.