Linda Sun, a former New York state official, has been accused of acting as an undisclosed agent of the Chinese government, allegedly using her influence to shape state policies in favor of China. The charges include violations of the Foreign Agents Registration Act, money laundering, and visa fraud.
Former New York Official Charged with Acting as Chinese Agent
Linda Sun, who previously served under both Governor Kathy Hochul and ex-Governor Andrew Cuomo, was arrested alongside her husband, Chris Hu, on charges of acting as an undisclosed agent of the Chinese government. Federal prosecutors allege that Sun used her position to influence state policy toward China and Taiwan, obstructing Taiwanese officials from accessing the New York governor’s office and shaping communications on China-related issues.
Allegations of Misconduct and Influence
According to the federal indictment unsealed on Tuesday, Sun leveraged her roles within the New York State Executive Chamber to further the interests of the Chinese government. She is accused of securing official proclamations for Chinese government representatives and attempting to arrange a trip to China with a high-ranking New York politician. In return for her services, Sun and her husband allegedly received numerous gifts and benefits, including luxury goods and a condominium in Hawaii.
Arrest and Legal Proceedings
Sun and Hu were arrested following a raid on their Long Island home by the FBI six weeks prior. Both pleaded not guilty to the charges. Sun is being released on a $1.5 million bond, with restrictions on her contact with the Chinese consulate and her travel limited to specific regions. Her husband is released on a $500,000 bond.
Misuse of State Power and Personal Gain
Prosecutors accuse Sun and Hu of laundering the proceeds of their activities and enriching themselves through fraudulent means. U.S. Attorney Breon Peace stated that while Sun appeared to serve the people of New York, she was actually advancing the interests of the Chinese government and the Chinese Communist Party (CCP). The charges against Sun include violations of the Foreign Agents Registration Act, visa fraud, money laundering, and alien smuggling, while Hu faces charges of money laundering and conspiracy to commit bank fraud.
Termination and State Response
Sun was terminated from her role in the Hochul administration in March 2023 after evidence of misconduct surfaced. The Hochul administration reported Sun’s actions to law enforcement and has cooperated throughout the investigation. Sun was transferred to the state Department of Labor before her termination.
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