A former senior New York State government official and her husband face serious charges after being accused of acting as secret agents for the Chinese government.
Linda Sun, 41, and her husband, Chris Hu, 40, were indicted on August 26 on multiple counts, including conspiracy, money laundering, visa fraud, and violating the Foreign Agents Registration Act (FARA).
These charges stem from their alleged efforts to further the interests of China while Sun served in various high-level positions under two New York Governors.
According to the U.S. Department of Justice, Sun and Hu received millions of dollars in exchange for their illegal actions on behalf of China. “While appearing to serve the people of New York as Deputy Chief of Staff, the defendant and her husband actually worked to further the interests of the Chinese government and the Chinese Communist Party,” said U.S. Attorney Breon Peace.
Longtime New York State Employee
Linda Sun, a naturalized U.S. citizen originally from China, started her career in New York State government in 2012. Over the years, she held several key roles, including Director of Asian American Affairs and Chief Diversity Officer. She worked under both former Governor Andrew Cuomo and current Governor Kathy Hochul.
Despite her public service roles, prosecutors allege Sun secretly acted on behalf of the Chinese government for years. Sun reportedly blocked representatives of Taiwan from accessing the Governor’s office and influenced political messaging in favor of China. She is also accused of helping to arrange unauthorized entry for Chinese officials into the U.S.
Court documents reveal that Sun persuaded former Governor Cuomo to publicly thank Chinese officials during the COVID-19 pandemic for their donation of 1,000 ventilators. In April 2020, Cuomo mentioned these officials by name in a tweet, at Sun’s urging.
Illegal Financial Gains and Lavish Lifestyle
The indictment outlines how Linda Sun and Chris Hu were compensated for their illegal activities. They reportedly received millions in payments through a network of accounts, including one in a relative’s name, which Hu allegedly controlled to launder money. These funds allowed them to lead a lavish lifestyle, purchasing luxury homes and cars, including a $3.6 million house in Manhasset, New York, and a $1.9 million condo in Honolulu, Hawaii.
Prosecutors allege the couple also enjoyed luxury gifts, including a Nanjing-style salted duck prepared by a Chinese official’s chef and sent to Sun’s parents.
Hochul’s Response and Ongoing Investigation
Governor Kathy Hochul dismissed Sun from her position in March 2023 after suspecting her involvement in suspicious activities. Hochul’s office cooperated with federal authorities in investigating Sun, leading to her indictment. In a press briefing on September 4, Hochul’s administration confirmed their efforts to assist the DOJ and also called for the dismissal of Chinese Consul General Huang Ping, who they believe was involved in the scandal.
“Governor Hochul took swift action once she became aware of Sun’s involvement and has fully supported the investigation,” a spokesperson for the Governor’s office stated.
Defendants Deny All Charges
Despite the charges, Linda Sun and Chris Hu maintain their innocence. Their attorney, Seth Ducharme, expressed confidence in their defense. “The allegations are perplexing and overly inflammatory,” Ducharme said in a statement to the press. “My clients are eager for their day in court and are exercising their rights to a speedy trial.”
Under their current bond conditions, Sun and Hu are restricted to traveling within specific areas, including New York City, Long Island, and parts of New England. They are barred from contacting the Chinese consulate or traveling to New Jersey or Upstate New York.
The couple’s next court hearing is scheduled for September 25, where they will face further legal proceedings on the charges related to their alleged involvement with the Chinese government.