Linda Sun, a former top aide to New York Governor Kathy Hochul, was arrested on September 3, 2024, on federal charges related to her alleged role as an unregistered agent for the Chinese government. The indictment, filed in Brooklyn, also names her husband, Chris Hu, who faces separate charges including conspiracy to commit money laundering and bank fraud.
Details of the Charges
Sun is charged with multiple offenses, including:
- Conspiracy to violate the Foreign Agents Registration Act (FARA)
- Visa fraud
- Facilitating alien smuggling
- Money laundering conspiracy
Prosecutors allege that Sun acted at the request of officials from the People’s Republic of China (PRC) and the Chinese Communist Party (CCP). She is accused of obstructing representatives from the Taiwanese government from meeting with New York state officials and of attempting to arrange a trip to China for a high-ranking New York politician. Furthermore, she allegedly secured official proclamations for PRC representatives without proper authorization and engaged in various political activities to promote Chinese interests within the state government.
In exchange for her actions, Sun and Hu reportedly received substantial financial benefits, which they allegedly laundered to purchase luxury properties and vehicles, including a $3.5 million home in Long Island and a $1.9 million condominium in Hawaii. The couple’s financial dealings are said to involve millions of dollars in kickbacks from their activities.
Kathy Hochul: Background and Employment History
Linda Sun, 40, served as the deputy chief of staff to Kathy Hochul from September 2021 until her termination in March 2023, after evidence of misconduct was uncovered. She previously held various roles in New York state government, including positions under former Governor Andrew Cuomo. Sun was noted for being the highest-ranking Asian American in Kathy Hochul’s administration during her tenure.
Following her departure from Hochul’s office, Sun briefly worked as a deputy secretary in the state Labor Department. Reports indicate that her employment was terminated after the state discovered evidence of her misconduct, which was subsequently reported to law enforcement.
Current Status
Both Sun and Hu were arrested at their Long Island residence and are scheduled to appear in federal court. The case highlights ongoing concerns regarding foreign influence in U.S. politics and the potential risks posed by undisclosed foreign agents operating within government structures 1.
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