Linda Sun, Former Aide to Kathy Hochul, Accused of China-Related Schemes
Linda Sun, a former aide to New York Governor Kathy Hochul, has been charged with serious federal crimes, including failure to register as a foreign agent, visa fraud, alien smuggling, and money laundering conspiracy. The indictment, unsealed Tuesday, alleges that Sun, while employed in New York State government, engaged in a scheme to advance China's interests.
According to federal prosecutors, Sun, who previously served in the administrations of both Gov. Andrew Cuomo and Gov. Hochul, acted as an unregistered agent of China. Her husband, Christopher Hu, is accused of aiding her by laundering millions of dollars in kickbacks, which were used to acquire high-value properties, including a $3.6 million home in Manhasset and a $1.9 million condo in Hawaii.
During a Brooklyn federal court arraignment, Sun and Hu each pleaded not guilty. Sun appeared in a black pantsuit with a red blouse, while Hu wore slacks and a pale dress shirt.
Prosecutors allege that Sun obstructed Taiwanese representatives from meeting with the governor and worked to influence public statements regarding China. Assistant U.S. Attorney Alexander Solomon emphasized the gravity of the case, describing it as "no ordinary financial fraud."
Evidence against Sun includes over 80 accounts and Chinese-language documents, such as a WeChat message in which Sun purportedly bragged about her efforts to enhance relations with China. Sun has been released on a $1.5 million bond, while Hu’s bond was set at $500,000. Sun is barred from contacting the Chinese consulate pending her next court appearance on September 25.
The FBI arrested Sun and Hu at their Long Island home on Tuesday morning, following a July search of their Manhasset residence. Avi Small, spokesperson for Gov. Hochul, confirmed that Sun was terminated from her position in March 2023 after misconduct was uncovered and that the administration had reported her actions to law enforcement.
Sun's tenure in state government spanned about 15 years, including roles as deputy chief of staff and deputy commissioner for strategic business development at the New York State Department of Labor. Hochul expressed her outrage over the allegations, describing them as a "betrayal of trust" and "shocking" during a WNYC appearance.
Hochul stated that further details of Sun’s alleged actions will emerge in court, emphasizing that her administration had acted promptly once the misconduct was discovered.