Former high-ranking New York state aide Linda Sun leaving court on Tuesday

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Linda Sun, a former aide to two New York governors, has been charged with spying for the Chinese government. Sun and her husband, Chris Hu, were arrested at their multimillion-dollar Long Island home on Tuesday. The charges accuse Sun of using her influential positions in New York’s state government to subtly advance China's interests in exchange for millions of dollars.

Sun, who held posts under Governor Kathy Hochul and former Governor Andrew Cuomo, allegedly used her role to block Taiwanese representatives and align state messaging with Chinese priorities. Prosecutors also claim that Sun's husband received business favors from China, which allowed the couple to buy luxury properties and cars.

Among the allegations, Sun is accused of ensuring that the Uyghur human rights situation was not mentioned in official New York communications. The couple pleaded not guilty and were released on bail. Sun’s lawyer stated she is upset by the charges and looks forward to addressing them in court.

This case is part of a broader federal effort to combat Chinese espionage in the United States. Sun has been barred from contacting Chinese officials and was previously dismissed from her government role after evidence of misconduct emerged.