Linda Sun, former deputy chief of staff to Kathy Hochul, accused of being an agent of the Chinese regime

Linda Sun, a former aide and former deputy chief of staff to New York governors Andrew Cuomo and Kathy Hochul, is accused of acting as a secret agent for the Chinese regime. According to the indictment, Sun used her state positions to subtly promote Beijing's agenda in exchange for benefits worth millions of dollars.

Federal prosecutors explained that Sun blocked Taiwanese government representatives' access to the governor's office at the request of Chinese officials, according to AP. She also allegedly modified the New York administration's message to align it with China's priorities.

Prosecutors also indicated that, in exchange for these actions, her husband - Christopher Hu - received assistance in conducting business in China. They highlighted that this provided a financial boost that allowed the couple to purchase her multimillion-dollar property in Manhasset, New York for $1.9 million and luxury cars, including a Ferrari 2024.

"As alleged, while appearing to serve the people of New York as Deputy Chief of Staff within the New York State Executive Chamber, the defendant and her husband actually worked to further the interests of the Chinese government and the Chinese Communist Party," U.S. Attorney Breon Peace said.

It was learned that Sun and Hu pleaded not guilty during an initial appearance. They will be released on bail. "Sun has been barred from having any contact with the People’s Republic of China’s consulate and mission," AP said.

The arrest of Sun and her husband came after federal agents raided their home currently valued at $3.5 million. Earlier this year, the New York Post had also reported that Sun was fired from her job at the State Department of Labor after "evidence of misconduct" was uncovered.