Linda Sun, who once worked as the deputy chief of staff for New York Governor Kathy Hochul, has been accused of secretly working for the Chinese government. Federal prosecutors say that her actions, directed by Beijing, were a serious threat to U.S. national security.
Sun allegedly received millions of dollars, fancy perks like salted duck deliveries, and other rewards for her services. According to the BBC, she used this money to buy luxury homes and cars with her husband, Christopher Hu, who is also facing charges.
The charges against Sun and Hu include working as unregistered agents of China, visa fraud, smuggling four illegal immigrants into the U.S., and money laundering.
Prosecutors say Sun helped Chinese officials gain unauthorized access to New York’s government activities, including blocking Taiwan’s representatives and changing the state’s messaging about China.
The BBC reports that Sun was fired nearly two years ago when Governor Hochul’s office found evidence of misconduct and quickly alerted the authorities.
Sun and Hu have pleaded not guilty to the charges in a Brooklyn federal court. The FBI had earlier raided their $3.5 million home in Long Island and arrested them.
As part of their bail conditions, Sun and Hu must stay within specific areas and report back to the judge later this month.
BBC further notes that Sun had held several high-ranking jobs in New York’s government since 2012, and her case is a significant concern for U.S. national security.
https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/c6281zgjjneo