Jury Unable to Reach Verdict on All Charges
A federal judge declared a mistrial in the corruption case against Linda Sun, a former senior aide to New York governors, after jurors failed to reach a unanimous verdict. The jury reported being deadlocked on all 19 counts following extended deliberations.
The trial, held in Brooklyn federal court, also involved Sun’s husband, Chris Hu, who faced multiple financial and fraud-related charges. Prosecutors indicated they intend to retry the case as soon as possible.
Allegations of Influence and Financial Gain
Federal prosecutors accused Sun of leveraging her government position to quietly advance the interests of the Chinese government in exchange for significant personal benefits. The alleged misconduct spanned years and included actions taken during the COVID-19 pandemic.
According to prosecutors, Sun accepted kickbacks tied to state contracts for medical equipment, including face masks, while shaping official messaging to align with Beijing’s diplomatic priorities.
Charges Tied to National Security Concerns
Sun was charged with acting as an unregistered agent of China, along with visa fraud, money laundering, and conspiracy counts. Hu faced charges including bank fraud, tax evasion, and money laundering, with several counts filed jointly.
The case formed part of a broader Justice Department effort to counter foreign influence operations targeting U.S. political institutions and officials at the state and local levels.
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Career Inside New York State Government
Over a 15-year career, Sun held several high-level posts in New York state government, including deputy chief of staff under Governor Kathy Hochul and deputy diversity officer during the administration of former Governor Andrew Cuomo.
She was dismissed in 2023 after state officials said they uncovered evidence of misconduct. Prosecutors argued that Sun’s access and influence made her a valuable asset to foreign handlers.
Prosecution Paints Picture of Systematic Corruption
During closing arguments, prosecutors alleged Sun actively blocked engagement with Taiwanese officials, including preventing meetings involving Taiwan’s leadership. They also accused her of removing references to sensitive human rights issues from official statements.
Financial records presented at trial detailed alleged efforts to conceal illicit gains through shell companies, intermediaries, and cash transfers. Prosecutors said the proceeds funded luxury real estate purchases, high-end vehicles, and other lavish spending.
Defense Challenges Government Narrative
Sun’s attorneys portrayed her as a loyal public servant and argued that her interactions with Chinese officials fell within normal diplomatic engagement. They emphasized her outreach to Taiwanese community groups as evidence she did not serve Beijing’s interests exclusively.
Defense counsel also questioned the government’s evidence, disputing claims of forged documents and arguing that pandemic-era contracting was chaotic, reducing the likelihood of bribery influencing outcomes.
Uncertain Path Forward
With the jury unable to reach consensus, the case now returns to prosecutors’ discretion. A retrial would likely revisit complex questions surrounding foreign influence, intent, and the limits of diplomatic engagement by state officials.
The mistrial leaves unresolved issues at the intersection of national security, state governance, and foreign policy.
