A former aide to New York Governor Kathy Hochul, Linda Sun, has been accused of secretly working as an agent for the Chinese government, allegedly receiving millions in compensation and extravagant gifts, including gourmet meals. Sun, 41, along with her husband, Chris Hu, 40, both pleaded not guilty to the charges in Brooklyn federal court after being arrested on Tuesday morning.
Prosecutors allege that Sun, while serving in the New York state government, actively obstructed Taiwanese representatives from meeting with officials and attempted to facilitate a visit by a high-ranking New York state official to China. In return, the Chinese government reportedly funneled millions of dollars through transactions benefiting Hu’s business dealings in China.
The couple allegedly used this money to acquire a 2024 Ferrari Roma sports car and real estate worth approximately $6 million on Long Island and in Honolulu. They also reportedly received special Nanjing-style salted ducks, prepared by a chef working for a Chinese official, delivered to Sun’s parents’ home.
Governor Hochul is not implicated in any wrongdoing. Sun was dismissed from her position in March 2023 after the governor’s office uncovered evidence of her misconduct. The governor’s office promptly reported the findings to authorities and has cooperated fully with law enforcement.
Sun was released on a $1.5 million bond, while Hu was released on a $500,000 bond. Their next court appearance is scheduled for September 25.
This case is part of a broader crackdown by the U.S. Department of Justice on individuals accused of acting on behalf of foreign adversaries without proper registration, with Sun facing multiple charges including failure to register under the Foreign Agents Registration Act and money laundering conspiracy. Hu faces additional charges, including bank fraud conspiracy.
