Brooklyn, NY – A former aide to New York State governor Kathy Hochul and her husband have been charged with acting as undisclosed agents for the Chinese Communist Party (CCP) and the People’s Republic of China (PRC). The couple, Linda Sun and Chris Hu, were the target of an FBI raid back in July.
The indictment, unsealed in Federal court in Brooklyn, alleges that Sun used her influential position within the New York State government to further the interests of the PRC and CCP, while Hu conspired to launder millions of dollars from their illicit activities.
Sun, 41, of Manhasset, served as Deputy Chief of Staff within the New York State Executive Chamber and held multiple roles in state agencies. However, prosecutors allege that behind the scenes, she was covertly promoting the agendas of the CCP, blocking Taiwanese officials from New York State access, and arranging unauthorized meetings and trips for PRC representatives. Her actions, which also included altering official communications to align with CCP interests, were allegedly rewarded with financial kickbacks and extravagant gifts.
The indictment also accuses Hu, 40, of laundering the proceeds from their unlawful activities, using the funds to purchase luxury properties and vehicles. Among the couple’s acquisitions are a $4.1 million estate in Manhasset, a $2.1 million condo in Honolulu, Hawaii, and a 2024 Ferrari. Authorities revealed that Hu used a relative’s identity to open bank accounts for laundering purposes.
“While appearing to serve the people of New York, Sun and her husband secretly worked to advance the interests of the Chinese government,” stated U.S. Attorney Breon Peace. “This illicit scheme enriched them at the expense of our national security, and we will act decisively to hold them accountable.”
FBI Acting Assistant Director Christie M. Curtis emphasized the threat posed by foreign agents infiltrating U.S. institutions, stating, “Sun’s actions directly endangered our national security by covertly promoting the PRC’s agenda. The FBI is committed to protecting the American people from such foreign interference.”
If convicted, the pair could face significant prison time and hefty fines.
The case is being prosecuted by the Eastern District of New York’s National Security & Cybercrime Section, with involvement from the FBI, IRS Criminal Investigation, and the Department of Justice’s National Security Division.
Photo: Linda Sun in a photo posted on X.
