John Bolton, a former National Security Adviser and longtime critic of President Donald Trump, has pleaded guilty to a charge of unlawfully retaining sensitive national security information.
According to court filings, the charge stems from Bolton’s handling of classified or sensitive government materials following his time in public office. By entering a guilty plea, Bolton acknowledged violating federal law related to the retention of protected national security information.
The case marks a significant legal development for the former White House official, who served as national security adviser from 2018 to 2019 before leaving the Trump administration. Since his departure, Bolton has become one of Trump’s most outspoken critics, frequently commenting on U.S. foreign policy and national security issues.
Legal experts note that the case underscores the strict rules governing the handling, storage, and retention of classified and sensitive government information by current and former officials.
Federal prosecutors have not publicly disclosed all details surrounding the materials involved, while sentencing is expected to take place at a later date.
The case is likely to draw continued attention given Bolton’s prominent role in national security and his high-profile relationship with the Trump administration.
