• Who: Former U.S. National Security Advisor John R. Bolton, II, 77.
  • What: Pleaded guilty to willfully retaining national defense information.
  • Where: Federal court in Maryland.
  • When: Plea entered today; sentencing scheduled for October 28.
  • Status: Guilty plea entered, awaits sentencing.

John R. Bolton, II, formerly the U.S. National Security Advisor, pleaded guilty today in federal court to willfully retaining national defense information, which he sent to unauthorized family members using personal accounts.

Bolton, 77, of Bethesda, Maryland, served as National Security Advisor to the President of the United States from April 2018 to September 2019. The charges stem from his alleged mishandling of classified documents during and after his tenure.

What Happened

According to court documents, Bolton incorporated highly sensitive classified information into personal “diary” entries during his time as National Security Advisor. These entries contained information classified up to the TOP SECRET level, including Sensitive Compartmented Information (SCI) related to foreign adversaries’ military plans, covert U.S. government actions, and intelligence from clandestine human sources and intercepted communications, authorities said.

Bolton allegedly sent these documents to two family members who were not authorized to access, receive, or possess classified information. He utilized non-governmental email accounts and a non-governmental messaging application, which are not approved for processing classified material. Copies of these documents were also retained at his home in Bethesda, where they were not permitted to be stored, according to authorities.

After Bolton left office in September 2019, his personal email account was reportedly hacked by a cyber actor believed to be associated with the Islamic Republic of Iran. While Bolton reported the hack to law enforcement, he did not disclose that the account contained national defense information, court documents show. In October 2025, a federal grand jury in the District of Maryland indicted Bolton on 18 counts related to willfully transmitting and retaining national defense information.

The Charges Explained

The plea of guilt relates to the willful retention of national defense information. Under the Espionage Act, retaining national defense information refers to the unlawful possession or control of documents or materials relating to the national defense which the possessor has reason to believe could be used to the injury of the United States or to the advantage of any foreign nation. The term “willfully” indicates that the act was done voluntarily and intentionally, rather than by accident or mistake.

How These Cases Move Through Court

Cases in the federal system, such as this one, typically begin with an investigation by federal agencies like the FBI. If sufficient evidence is found, a prosecutor may present the case to a federal grand jury, which decides whether to issue an indictment. An indictment formally charges an individual with a crime. Following an indictment, the accused is arraigned, where they are informed of the charges and enter a plea of guilty or not guilty.

If a not guilty plea is entered, the case proceeds through discovery, where both sides exchange information, and may involve motions or plea negotiations. If no plea agreement is reached, the case typically goes to trial. If a guilty plea is entered, as in this case, or if a defendant is found guilty at trial, a sentencing hearing is scheduled where the judge determines the appropriate punishment based on sentencing guidelines and other factors.

Context & Background

Incidents involving the mishandling of classified information by former or current government officials underscore the ongoing challenges associated with protecting national security. The U.S. government maintains strict protocols for handling classified material, which are designed to prevent unauthorized access and safeguard sensitive intelligence from foreign adversaries.

The deliberate or negligent retention and transmission of classified information outside secure channels carries significant risks. Such actions can compromise intelligence sources, endanger personnel, and provide foreign entities with strategic advantages, potentially impacting national security and international relations. Federal agencies, including the Department of Justice and the FBI, prioritize the investigation and prosecution of individuals who violate these protocols, regardless of their past positions.

Recognizing and Reporting Cybercrime

Cybercrime, particularly involving state-sponsored actors, presents a persistent threat to individuals and national security infrastructure. If you suspect you have been a victim of hacking or other cybercriminal activity, especially if it involves sensitive information, it is crucial to report it to law enforcement immediately. The FBI encourages individuals to report cybercrime to the Internet Crime Complaint Center (IC3) at www.ic3.gov or by calling 1-800-CALL-FBI. For immediate emergencies, dial 911.

What Happens Next

Following his guilty plea, John R. Bolton, II, will appear before U.S. District Court Judge Theodore D. Chuang for sentencing. The sentencing is scheduled for October 28. According to the plea agreement, Bolton faces a maximum penalty of 60 months in prison and has agreed to pay a $2.25 million fine. Under federal law, his conviction also prohibits him or his survivors from collecting an annuity or federal retirement pay.