A former aide to the New York governor has been arrested and charged with working as an agent for China.
Substantial Financial Incentives
He has allegedly earned millions of dollars while living a lavish lifestyle, federal prosecutors announced on Tuesday.
Linda Sun, the aide in question, is accused of obstructing access for Taiwanese officials to New York state leaders, arranging an official trip to China for a senior New York official, and coordinating meetings for visiting Chinese delegations.
According to prosecutors, Sun received “substantial” financial incentives in exchange for her efforts, which allowed her to indulge in a luxurious lifestyle.
This included tickets to orchestras in China and rare culinary delights, such as Nanjing-style salted duck prepared by a Chinese official's chef during official visits.
Exploited Her Influence
Prosecutors stated that Sun “exploited her influence” among New York officials to “clandestinely promote” the interests of the Chinese government, posing a direct threat to national security.
“This illicit scheme enriched the defendant's family by millions of dollars,” said U.S. Attorney Breon Peace, although no specific financial figures were disclosed, according to Digi24.
Her husband, Christopher Hu, is also implicated in the case, as he allegedly facilitated the transfer of millions of dollars in bribes for personal gain. The couple reportedly purchased a $4.1 million property in Long Island, New York, a $2.1 million apartment in Hawaii, and even a brand-new Ferrari.
Both Sun and Hu have pleaded not guilty and were released on bail, with the condition that they avoid contact with any Chinese diplomatic mission.
