FBI Seizes Documents and Devices from John Bolton's Home in Classified Secrets Probe
The FBI seized phones, computers, and documents, including "Trump I-IV" folders, from John Bolton's Bethesda, Maryland home, investigating alleged mishandling of government secrets from his national security adviser role.
FBI seized hard drives and 'Trump'-labeled binders from John Bolton’s home
Washington Examiner
Subscribe to unlock this story
We really don't like cutting you off, but you've reached your monthly limit. At just $5/month, subscriptions are how we keep this project going. Start your free 7-day trial today!
Get StartedHave an account? Sign in
Overview
- The FBI conducted a court-authorized search of John Bolton's home in Bethesda, Maryland, as part of a criminal investigation into the mishandling of government secrets.
- Agents seized numerous electronic devices, including iPhones, computers, hard drives, and USB drives, along with various physical documents from the residence.
- Among the seized items were typed documents in folders labeled "Trump I-IV" and a white binder titled "Statements and Reflections to Allied Strikes."
- The investigation focuses on classified documents related to Bolton's former role as national security adviser during Trump's presidency and disclosures in his book.
- While over a dozen items were seized, John Bolton has not yet been charged with any crimes in connection with the ongoing federal inquiry.
Report issue
Read both sides in 5 minutes each day
Analysis
Center-leaning sources cover this story neutrally, focusing on the factual details of the FBI search at John Bolton's home. They report the items seized and the legal basis without using loaded language or editorializing, allowing readers to form their own conclusions. The coverage provides context on Bolton's past and notes that no charges have been filed, maintaining an objective stance.
"Bolton is under investigation for possible violations of two federal laws: for gathering defense information and for unauthorized retention of classified documents, according to Sullivan's filing."
USA TODAY"The criminal investigation burst into view last month when agents searched Bolton’s home in Bethesda, Maryland and his office in the District of Columbia."
Associated PressArticles (6)
FAQ
The FBI seized multiple electronic devices including two iPhones, three computers (Dell XPS laptop, Dell Precision Tower, Dell Inspiron), a Seagate hard drive, two Sandisk 64GB USB drives, and physical documents such as folders labeled 'Trump I-IV', a white binder titled 'Statements and Reflections to Allied Strikes...', and four boxes of 'printed daily activities' from Bolton's home.
The investigation centers on alleged mishandling of classified government secrets related to John Bolton's role as national security adviser during the Trump administration and disclosures in his memoir. The Justice Department has examined whether Bolton improperly retained or disclosed classified information.
As of the latest reports, John Bolton has not been charged with any crimes in connection with the ongoing federal investigation.
The raid was significant because it revived an investigation into the possible mishandling of classified documents after it had been halted by the Biden administration. It also highlighted tensions stemming from Bolton’s memoir, which contained classified information, and the Trump administration's attempts to block its publication.
Previously, under the Trump administration, the Justice Department sought to block Bolton’s memoir from publication on grounds that it contained classified information. Also, President Trump revoked Bolton's security clearance and Secret Service protection prior to the FBI searches.
History
- This story does not have any previous versions.