Former US National Security Adviser John Bolton has been
criminally charged in a sweeping indictment for allegedly sharing sensitive
government information with 2 of his relatives, reportedly for potential use in
a book he was writing.
The indictment, announced Thursday, marks the third high
profile case in recent weeks in which the Justice Department has brought
charges against individuals critical of former President Donald Trump.
According to the indictment, Bolton shared electronic
messages containing notes from meetings with senior government officials,
discussions with foreign leaders & intelligence briefings.
In these communications, he reportedly referred to his
wife & daughter, the relatives involved as his editors & discussed
using the material for publication, including conversations with a book
publisher about rights.
Bolton has denied any wrongdoing, stating he look forward
to the fight to defend his lawful conduct & to expose Trump’s abuse of
power.
His attorney, Abbe Lowell, emphasised that Bolton did not
unlawfully share or store any classified information.
The investigation into Bolton dates back to 2022,
predating the Trump administration & officials within the Justice
Department reportedly consider the case stronger than recent prosecutions
against other Trump critics, such as former FBI Director James Comey & New
York Attorney General Letitia James.
The indictment underscores ongoing tensions surrounding
the politicisation of federal law enforcement under Trump, who has in recent
months actively pressed the Justice Department to pursue legal action against
perceived adversaries.
