John Bolton, former Trump national security adviser, pleads guilty to retaining classified information
The plea deal could let Bolton avoid prison, with prosecutors recommending a sentence cap of 5 years and a $2.25 million fine.
- On Friday, John Bolton pleaded guilty in Greenbelt, Maryland, to illegally retaining classified information, sealing a Justice Department deal that could allow him to avoid prison.
- FBI agents searched Bolton's Maryland home and Washington office last August, with the investigation beginning before President Donald Trump returned to the White House in January 2025.
- Charged last Oct with 18 counts of retaining classified information, Bolton allegedly shared notes with relatives; prosecutors said a relative wrote, "Shhhhh," in response to one document.
- District Judge Theodore Chuang scheduled sentencing for Oct. 28, with the plea agreement recommending a five-year prison cap; Bolton can withdraw his plea if fines exceed $2.25 million.
- After serving in the first administration, Bolton became an outspoken critic of President Donald Trump, publishing a book, "The Room Where it Happened," which Trump called "crazy.
254 Articles
254 Articles
A major figure from Trump administration makes stunning courtroom admission
Former national security adviser John Bolton pleaded guilty Friday to a single federal charge of unlawfully retaining classified national defense information, resolving a high-profile criminal case tied to his handling of sensitive government records after leaving office. The plea agreement significantly reduces the original 18-count indictment and could allow Bolton to avoid prison, though a judge will determine his sentence later this year.
John Bolton, ex-security adviser to US President Trump, has acknowledged the improper handling of secret documents and pleaded guilty. The sentence will be announced in October. A deal could prevent a prison sentence.
New Jersey Monitor
Former Trump adviser John Bolton pleads guilty to mishandling sensitive documents
Former U.S. Ambassador to the United Nations and former National Security Advisor John Bolton departs U.S. District Court for the District of Maryland after a plea deal hearing on June 26, 2026 in Greenbelt, Maryland. (Photo by Al Drago/Getty Images) John Bolton, a national security adviser to President Donald Trump in his first term, pleaded guilty Friday to a federal charge of mishandling classified information, the Department of Justice said …
Bolton Pleads Guilty - Max Sentence 5 Years, Plus $2.25 Million Fine
The original indictment carried 17 counts against him. Today, John Bolton has pleaded guilty to one felony of willfully retaining classified information. The plea agreement includes a max term of 5 years prison, $2.25 million fine and forfeiture of his federal pension. U.S. Attorney Kelly O. Hayes made the announcement saying: “John Robert Bolton II […] The post Bolton Pleads Guilty – Max Sentence 5 Years, Plus $2.25 Million Fine appeared firs…
John Bolton Pleads Guilty
Former National Security Advisor John Bolton pleaded guilty to illegally retaining classified documents. According to the Department of Justice, Bolton used personal accounts to send the classified materials to family members. One of the email accounts was hacked by an actor believed to be linked to Iran. His sentencing is scheduled for October 28 by U.S. District Judge Theodore Chuang. As part of his plea deal, Bolton will pay a $2.25 million f…
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