Former National Security Advisor John Bolton turned himself into federal authorities to face charges alleging that he mishandled some of America’s most sensitive national security documents.
The 76-year-old former Trump adviser left his Maryland home early Friday morning and appeared later in the day in federal court in Greenbelt, Maryland, where he pleaded not guilty to all 18 counts outlined in a newly unsealed 26-page indictment. Both Trump and former President Joe Biden have faced similar criticisms for possessing such documents, with the former previously being charged and then having said charges expunged.
Prosecutors accuse Bolton of willfully retaining national defense information, including materials marked "TOP SECRET/Sensitive Compartmented Information," in violation of the Espionage Act. The indictment alleges that after leaving the White House in 2019, Bolton kept classified briefing papers and handwritten notes containing intelligence about U.S. military and diplomatic operations.
Investigators say the documents found at his Maryland residence contained details about U.S. contingency plans and intelligence assessments involving Iran, North Korea, and other sensitive matters.
Turning Himself In
Federal sources told Military.com that Bolton’s surrender was coordinated through his attorney, Abbe Lowell.
The U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Maryland confirmed the indictment but declined further comment, citing the ongoing case.
Bolton’s appearance in court marks a dramatic moment for a veteran foreign policy figure who once pushed aggressive strategies against U.S. adversaries from inside the West Wing.
What The Indictment Alleges
The indictment states that Bolton kept at least four classified documents and failed to return them to government custody despite repeated requests.
Some of the information was allegedly found in drafts of his 2020 memoir, The Room Where It Happened, which was published after legal disputes with the White House.
If convicted, Bolton could face up to 10 years in prison and substantial fines under the Espionage Act.
A senior defense official told Military.com the case reinforces that “classification laws apply to everyone, regardless of position or politics.”
Inside Today’s Court Appearance
Bolton entered his plea before a federal magistrate and was released on bond pending trial. Prosecutors did not request detention but are seeking standard conditions limiting travel and access to classified information while the case proceeds.
Court officials said security was tight and media access limited as Bolton made his first public appearance since the charges were announced.
