( Source- apnews.com )
In a shocking development, Linda Sun, a former aide to both New York Governors Kathy Hochul and former Governor Andrew Cuomo, has been charged with acting as an agent for the Chinese government. The charges, announced on Tuesday by U.S. Attorney Breon Peace, are part of a wider indictment that includes allegations of visa fraud, alien smuggling, money laundering conspiracy, and violations of the Foreign Agents Registration Act (FARA). Sun’s husband, Chris Hu, has also been implicated in the conspiracy, facing charges related to money laundering and bank fraud.
Sun and Husband Formor New York Governors Arrested in Long Island
New York Governors Sun, who served as deputy chief of staff under Governor Hochul and held various positions during Governor Cuomo’s administration, was arrested alongside her husband at their Long Island residence on Tuesday morning. The couple appeared in federal court later that day, where they both pleaded not guilty to the charges against them. According to the indictment, Sun acted as an “undisclosed agent of the Chinese government,” using her influence within the New York state government to benefit the Chinese Communist Party (CCP). Her husband, Hu, is accused of facilitating the transfer of millions of dollars in kickbacks for their personal gain.
During the court hearing, prosecutors presented evidence of the couple’s alleged crimes, including the use of shell companies, iCloud accounts, and WeChat messages—conducted entirely in Mandarin. Despite the serious nature of the charges, Sun’s bond was set at $1.5 million, while Hu’s was set at $500,000. Both defendants have been ordered to remain within specific regions, including New York City, Long Island, Maine, and New Hampshire, pending trial.
Defense Denies Allegations, Criticises Prosecution
Following the court proceedings, defense attorney Seth DuCharme addressed the media, expressing confidence in the couple’s innocence. “A lot of the allegations in this indictment are frankly perplexing and overly inflammatory,” DuCharme stated. “As you heard in court today, we are looking forward to our day in court. The defendants are exercising their right to a speedy trial, and we have a lot of confidence in Chris and Linda.”
Jarrod Schaeffer, another attorney representing Sun, echoed these sentiments, criticising the prosecution for what he described as an “overly aggressive” approach. “We are troubled by aspects of the government’s investigation,” Schaeffer told CNN. “Our client is eager to defend against these accusations in the proper forum—a court of law.”
The couple’s next court appearance is scheduled for September 25. The case has drawn significant attention due to Sun’s extensive career in public service, which spans over a decade. She held various positions in the New York state government, including roles focused on economic development, labour, and diversity. Her employment was terminated in March 2023 by the Department of Labor, following an internal investigation that uncovered “evidence of misconduct,” according to a statement from Governor Hochul’s press secretary, Avi Small. The nature of the misconduct has not been disclosed, but the governor’s office has been cooperating with law enforcement throughout the investigation.
Rich Azzopardi, a spokesperson for former Governor Cuomo, emphasised the importance of maintaining national security free from foreign influence. He noted that while Sun held several positions during Cuomo’s tenure, her role was limited and did not involve direct interaction with the governor. The case raises serious concerns about the integrity of public office and the potential for foreign interference in U.S. state governments. As the legal process unfolds, the charges against Sun and Hu will be closely watched, given the significant implications for both state and national security.
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