U.S. Government Contractor Arrested for Allegedly Leaking National Defense Information

A U.S. government contractor was arrested by the FBI this morning for allegedly leaking national defense information to another individual who repeatedly posted classified information to an online publication.

“National defense information is classified to protect the American people from bad actors around the world who wish to do us harm,” said Attorney General Todd Blanche. “The details alleged in this affidavit reflect the behavior of a government contractor who exempted himself from a federal law governing the protection of classified information. The Department of Justice will continue prosecuting individuals who leak classified information and put our national security at risk.”

“The FBI arrested the subject after he was caught allegedly betraying his oath and leaking classified defense information,” said FBI Director Kash Patel. “Protecting America’s secrets is a top counterintelligence priority of this FBI – and anyone caught abusing their position of trust within the government by jeopardizing national security and putting our brave warriors at risk will be met with the full weight of justice.”

“Following a referral from the Agency, on Friday, October 23rd, the FBI arrested a contractor who provided services to CIA for alleged unauthorized disclosures of classified information,” said CIA Director John Ratcliffe. “The unauthorized release of classified material poses grave risks to our national security, intelligence sources, ongoing operations, and our officers. There is absolutely zero tolerance for leaking, and anyone who violates their oath will be held accountable and prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law.”

Read more: Department of Justice