Former New York Deputy Chief of Staff Linda Sun, who served under Governors Andrew Cuomo and Kathy Hochul, was indicted in September 2024 on charges of acting as an undisclosed agent of the People's Republic of China (PRC), along with her husband, Chris Hu. Prosecutors allege she used her position to influence state policy in China's favor—blocking Taiwanese officials from events, promoting PRC narratives, and blocking anti-China resolutions—in exchange for over $18 million in kickbacks from PRC officials. These funds were laundered through shell companies tied to Hu's businesses, including a restaurant and media firm, and funneled into high-end purchases.
Sun's trial began jury selection this week (November 2025), with charges including money laundering, visa fraud, and FARA violations—facing up to 20 years if convicted. She denies the allegations, claiming no knowledge of illicit activities.
How the Funds Were Spent: A Lavish Lifestyle
The DOJ detailed how the couple splurged on luxury amid their alleged influence-peddling:
| Purchase | Value | Details |
|---|---|---|
| Manhattan Mansion | $3.6M | Bought in 2021; a luxury condo on the Upper East Side. |
| Hawaii Condo | $1.9M | High-rise oceanfront property; used as a "safe house" per filings. |
| 2024 Ferrari | ~$300K+ | One of several luxury cars; part of a fleet including a Porsche. |
| Other Perks | $12M+ | Designer bags, jewelry, and family trips to China; total laundered funds exceeded $18M. |
This case highlights PRC's "elite capture" tactics, per DOJ—targeting influential Americans with cash for access. Hochul's office cut ties with Sun in 2022 amid probes. Trial updates expected soon—stay tuned.
BREAKING - It has been revealed that Linda Sun, a former aide to Kathy Hochul and a Chinese spy, received $18.1 million from China, which she used to buy a $3.6 million mansion, a $1.9 million condo, and a 2024 Ferrari, in exchange for influencing New York State policy in China’s… pic.twitter.com/bUShhvIEn2
— Right Angle News Network (@Rightanglenews) November 12, 2025
