John Bolton surrenders to face charges of sharing classified information

Published: Friday, October 17, 2025 at 12:52 pm

Former National Security Advisor John Bolton Indicted on Classified Information Charges

Former White House National Security Advisor John Bolton surrendered to federal authorities on Friday to face charges related to the alleged improper handling of classified materials. Bolton was indicted on 18 counts, including eight counts of transmission of national defense information and ten counts of retention of national defense information.

The indictment alleges that Bolton, while serving as National Security Advisor from April 9, 2018, to August 22, 2025, shared over a thousand pages of classified information, including material classified up to the TOP SECRET/SCI level, with two unauthorized individuals. The documents reportedly detailed sensitive information about national defense, including intelligence on potential attacks, sensitive information shared by a liaison partner, and covert actions in foreign countries.

The FBI investigation revealed that Bolton allegedly transmitted top-secret information using personal online accounts and retained documents at his home. FBI Director Kash Patel stated that the case was based on the work of dedicated career professionals and emphasized that the agency would pursue anyone who threatens national security.

Bolton's home was previously searched by FBI agents in August, focusing on classified documents believed to be in his possession.

Bolton's attorney, Abbe Lowell, stated that the underlying facts of the case were investigated and resolved years ago. Lowell also noted that the charges are linked to portions of Bolton's personal diaries and included unclassified information shared with immediate family members. Lowell stated that the FBI was aware of this information dating back to at least 2021.

BNN's Perspective:

This case raises serious questions about the handling of classified information and the potential for political motivations in legal proceedings. While the allegations against Bolton are serious, the timing and context of the charges warrant careful consideration. It is crucial that the legal process is fair and impartial, and that the investigation is conducted without political interference. The public deserves transparency and a clear understanding of the facts.

Keywords: John Bolton, classified information, indictment, national security, FBI, Abbe Lowell, top secret, national defense, White House, former National Security Advisor, federal charges, classified documents, improper handling, transmission of information, retention of information, weaponization of justice

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