Bethesda, MD – A federal grand jury has indicted former National Security Advisor John Bolton on multiple charges connected to the alleged mishandling and transmission of classified national defense information.
Prosecutors say the 76-year-old Bethesda resident illegally stored and transmitted top secret material using personal online accounts.
Bolton faces 18 total counts, including eight for the alleged transmission of national defense information (NDI) and 10 for unlawful retention of NDI.
According to the indictment, Bolton is accused of using private email and messaging applications to send documents marked as Top Secret. These materials allegedly contained sensitive intelligence about foreign adversaries, planned attacks, and international relations. Investigators further claim that additional classified records were found inside his home, including intelligence on foreign leaders and details about U.S. intelligence-gathering sources.
Federal officials vow accountability
Attorney General Pamela Bondi emphasized the principle of equal justice under the law, stating that “anyone who abuses a position of power and jeopardizes our national security will be held accountable.”
FBI Director Kash Patel said the charges stem from a “meticulous investigation” led by career professionals who “followed the facts without fear or favor.” He added that the FBI “will stop at nothing to bring to justice anyone who threatens our national security.”
Investigation led by FBI Baltimore Field Office
The U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Maryland said the case underscores the federal government’s commitment to protecting national secrets. U.S. Attorney Kelly O. Hayes noted that her office “will hold accountable anyone who endangers our national security.”
Special Agent in Charge William J. DelBagno of the FBI Baltimore Field Office said the indictment demonstrates that “there will be consequences for those who violate” their oath to protect classified information.
Potential penalties
If convicted, Bolton faces up to 10 years in federal prison for each count of unlawful retention and transmission of NDI. A federal judge will determine any sentence in accordance with the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.
The FBI Baltimore Field Office continues to lead the investigation into the case.
