Linda Sun, the former deputy chief of staff for New York Governor Kathy Hochul, has been charged with secretly serving as an agent for the Chinese government in return for millions of dollars in gifts and payments. Alongside her husband, Chris Hu, Sun entered a plea of not guilty to multiple criminal charges during a court hearing in Brooklyn on September 3.

According to federal prosecutors, while employed in the state government, Sun obstructed meetings between Taiwanese officials and their New York counterparts and attempted to facilitate a visit to China for a high-ranking state official. The Chinese government allegedly compensated Hu with substantial financial arrangements in exchange for these services.

Financial transactions attributed to the couple reportedly enabled them to purchase a luxurious Ferrari and properties in New York and Honolulu, collectively valued at approximately $6 million. In addition to these expenses, they are accused of receiving high-end gifts, including gourmet meals featuring specialty ducks, sourced from a personal chef of a Chinese governmental representative.

Governor Hochul's office has stated that she is not implicated in any wrongdoing. Following the discovery of misconduct in March 2023, Sun was dismissed from her position, and the governor's office has cooperated fully with law enforcement since then. Magistrate Judge Peggy Kuo set bail at $1.5 million for Sun and $500,000 for Hu, with their next court date scheduled for September 25.

Sun faces multiple charges, including violations related to the Foreign Agents Registration Act and conspiracy to commit money laundering, while Hu faces accusations of conspiracy related to bank fraud. The recent crackdown by the U.S. Department of Justice on individuals suspected of being foreign agents highlights the importance of complying with registration laws.