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The trial of Linda Sun, a former aide to New York Governors Andrew Cuomo and Kathy Hochul, began in Brooklyn on Wednesday. Sun faces charges of acting as an undisclosed agent for the Chinese government, violating the Foreign Agents Registration Act and profiting illegally from the state's purchase of face masks during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Prosecutors allege that Sun, a naturalized U.S. citizen born in China, used her position to influence state policy in favor of the Chinese government. This included blocking Taiwanese representatives from meeting with state officials and shaping government messaging to align with Chinese interests. In exchange, Sun and her husband, Chris Hu, allegedly received millions in kickbacks, which they used to purchase luxury properties and cars, including a Ferrari.
The indictment claims Sun and Hu laundered money through real estate purchases, including a home in Manhasset, New York, and a condominium in Honolulu, Hawaii. Sun is also accused of forging documents to secure contracts for companies linked to her family and associates, resulting in over $44 million in state payments.
Both Sun and Hu have pleaded not guilty to the charges, which include conspiracy, money laundering, bank fraud, and bribery. Sun's lawyer, Jarrod L. Schaeffer, argues that the case is based on inconsistencies and that Sun acted within her official capacity. He claims the charges stem from the couple's wealth rather than any wrongdoing.
The trial, expected to last several weeks, is part of a broader U.S. effort to address alleged covert Chinese influence. Federal prosecutors aim to prove that Sun's actions constituted a betrayal of New York state and its residents during a critical time. Judge Brian Cogan is presiding over the case, which highlights ongoing concerns about foreign influence in U.S. politics.
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