Ex-Aide to N.Y. Gov. Kathy Hochul Arrested, According to FBI

NEW YORK – Linda Sun, a former aide to New York Governors Kathy Hochul and Andrew Cuomo, was arrested by the FBI on Tuesday morning. Alongside her, her husband Chris Hu was also taken into custody.

The arrests took place at their high-end residence located in Manhasset on Long Island. Both face charges related to violations of the Foreign Agents Registration Act. This law mandates that individuals register with the Justice Department if they participate in advocacy efforts for a foreign government, in this instance, China.

The FBI conducted a pre-dawn raid about six weeks ago at the couple’s $3.5 million home, a move that raised eyebrows due to Sun’s high-profile background in state politics. At that time, the purpose of the raid was unclear, but it became a point of interest because of Sun’s previous roles under both governors.

“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 CCP,” said U.S. Attorney Breon Peace. “The illicit scheme enriched the defendant’s family to the tune of millions of dollars. Our office will act decisively to prosecute those who serve as undisclosed agents of a foreign government.”

Sun’s employment was terminated in March 2023 after officials discovered evidence of misconduct. Hochul’s Press Secretary, Avi Small, emphasized that the administration acted swiftly upon uncovering the situation, indicating they informed law enforcement immediately and provided assistance throughout the ongoing investigation.

Sources reveal that evidence of misconduct was initially identified during Sun’s tenure at New York’s Department of Labor. Among the allegations is that she forged Hochul’s signature on a letter intended for the Chinese government. Furthermore, it is reported that Sun attempted to facilitate a contract for a Chinese company related to pandemic needs while working under Cuomo.

The U.S. Attorney’s Office in Brooklyn is investigating potential connections between the Chinese government and local political affairs. This ongoing investigation has led to numerous other inquiries, including raids on properties associated with Winnie Greco, the director of Asian affairs in Mayor Eric Adams’ administration.

Additionally, the FBI is looking into the New World Mall on Roosevelt Avenue in Queens, which hosted several fundraising events for Mayor Adams during his 2021 campaign. When questioned about the ongoing inquiries, Adams maintained that his focus remains on governance and city management.

“Whenever there is an inquiry, the review must be done. That’s the process. My job is to stay focused on running the city. I’m not going to remove trash off the streets and keep the city safe from violence if I’m distracted,” Adams stated in March.

The central issues arising from this case highlight serious concerns about transparency and loyalty among public officials, particularly related to foreign influence. The actions of Sun and her husband exemplify the risks involved when public servants may prioritize foreign allegiance over their duties to the state. As the investigation unfolds, the implications could resonate throughout New York’s political landscape, calling into question the robustness of oversight and the effectiveness of current regulations regarding foreign influence.

Public interest remains high as this situation develops, with state officials and citizens alike awaiting further updates and potential ramifications for New York’s political climate. This incident serves as a reminder of the need for vigilant governance in ensuring that those in power do not exploit their positions for foreign gains.