In Brooklyn, NY, a federal indictment has been unsealed against Linda Sun, accusing her of violating the Foreign Agents Registration Act, committing visa fraud, engaging in alien smuggling, and participating in a money laundering conspiracy. Sun is alleged to have acted on behalf of the People’s Republic of China (PRC) and the Chinese Communist Party (CCP). Her husband, Chris Hu, is also charged with conspiracy to commit bank fraud and money laundering.
Both Sun and Hu were arrested this morning and are set to appear in court later today before United States Magistrate Judge Peggy Kuo.
The prosecution was announced by Breon Peace, U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of New York, along with Matthew G. Olsen, Assistant Attorney General for the Justice Department’s National Security Division, and officials from the FBI and IRS-Criminal Investigation.
According to U.S. Attorney Peace, Sun, while serving as Deputy Chief of Staff within the New York State Executive Chamber, worked to advance the interests of the Chinese government and CCP, allegedly making millions of dollars from this scheme. Peace stated that the office is committed to prosecuting individuals who act as undisclosed agents for foreign governments.
FBI officials emphasized that Sun’s actions posed a direct threat to national security, as she reportedly facilitated access for PRC representatives to state officials and manipulated state messaging to align with PRC interests. The indictment also details how Sun offered unauthorized benefits, including invitation letters that misled immigration processes, thereby violating rules within the New York State government.
Sun is accused of failing to register as a foreign agent, concealing her activities directed by PRC and CCP officials. In exchange for her actions, she allegedly received various benefits, including substantial financial transactions for Hu’s businesses, travel perks, and luxury items like properties and high-end vehicles.
Hu is also implicated in laundering funds through accounts that misused a relative’s identification. The indictment outlines serious allegations against both defendants, who are presumed innocent until proven guilty.
The case is being prosecuted by the National Security & Cybercrime Section of the U.S. Attorney’s Office, with several attorneys involved in the proceedings.
Defendants:
LINDA SUN
Age: 41
Manhasset, New York
CHRIS HU
Age: 40
Manhasset, New York
E.D.N.Y. Docket No. 24-CR-346 (BMC)