Ex-US Soldier Arrested for Aiding China’s Access to Military Computers
American Soldier Arrested for Attempting to Deliver Classified Defense Information to China
A former U.S. soldier has been apprehended by the State Department for his involvement in trying to provide classified defense information to China’s ruling communist regime.
Joseph Schmidt, a former sergeant in the U.S. Army, was taken into custody on October 6. Although he was not enlisted at the time of his arrest, Schmidt is facing charges related to his alleged attempts to deliver national defense information to communist China and his illegal retention of such information after leaving the military.
He is scheduled to appear in the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of California on Friday and will be brought to the Western District of Washington for further court proceedings.
“Individuals entrusted with national defense information have a continuing duty to protect that information beyond their government service and certainly beyond our borders,” stated Assistant Attorney General for National Security Matthew Olsen.
The National Security Division is committed to identifying and holding accountable those who violate that duty.
Schmidt served in the Army for five years, with his service ending in 2020.
During his time at Joint Base Lewis-McChord in Washington state, where he was assigned to the 109th Military Intelligence Battalion, Schmidt had access to Secret and Top Secret information.
After leaving the military, Schmidt allegedly retained classified intelligence related to national defense matters and subsequently reached out to the Chinese consulate in Turkey and Chinese security services via email, offering them the information.
“Schmidt betrayed his promise and potentially jeopardized our nation by attempting to pass national defense information to Chinese security services,” said FBI Assistant Director of Counterintelligence Suzanne Turner.
The FBI and its partners are dedicated to safeguarding the American people and U.S. national security.
Two months after leaving the Army, Schmidt traveled to Hong Kong, where he reportedly informed Chinese security services about a device that could access secure military computer networks in the United States. He allegedly offered to provide this device to the Chinese regime.
Schmidt has been residing in Hong Kong since 2020 but was arrested upon his arrival in San Francisco this week.
“Members of our military take a sworn oath to defend our country and the Constitution,” stated Acting U.S. Attorney Tessa Gorman.
“In this context, the alleged actions of this former military member are shocking, as he not only attempted to provide national defense information but also information that would aid a foreign adversary in gaining access to Department of Defense secure computer networks.”
Both charges against Schmidt carry a maximum penalty of 10 years in prison and a $250,000 fine.
What role do government agencies and intelligence services play in identifying and mitigating potential threats to national security posed by individuals seeking to provide classified information to foreign entities
The recent arrest of a former American soldier for attempting to deliver classified defense information to China has raised concerns about national security and the potential risks posed by individuals with access to sensitive information.
Joseph Schmidt, a former sergeant in the U.S. Army, was apprehended by the State Department on October 6. Although he was not enlisted at the time of his arrest, Schmidt is facing charges related to his alleged attempts to provide national defense information to China’s ruling communist regime. Additionally, he is being charged with the illegal retention of classified information after leaving the military.
This incident highlights the ongoing challenge of safeguarding classified information and preventing unauthorized disclosures. Individuals entrusted with national defense information have a duty to protect it not only during their government service but also beyond our borders. The potential consequences of such information falling into the wrong hands are significant, including jeopardizing national security, compromising military operations, and endangering the lives of service members.
The arrest of Schmidt serves as a stark reminder of the continuous threat posed by foreign intelligence agencies and their efforts to obtain classified information. These agencies often target individuals who have access to sensitive information, as was the case with Schmidt. His alleged attempt to deliver classified defense information to China’s communist regime underscores the need for enhanced security measures and increased vigilance.
The investigation and subsequent legal proceedings will shed light on the extent of Schmidt’s involvement and the nature of the information he intended to provide. It is imperative that the U.S. justice system thoroughly examines the case to ensure a fair trial and the appropriate punishment if found guilty. This should serve as a deterrent to others who may contemplate similar actions.
National security remains a top priority for the United States, and incidents like this underscore the need for constant vigilance and robust security protocols. It is essential to continuously review and strengthen security measures, enhance personnel screening processes, and provide ongoing training to individuals with access to classified information. Additionally, close cooperation between government agencies and intelligence services is crucial in identifying and mitigating potential threats.
As Schmidt is scheduled to appear in the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of California on Friday, and subsequently brought to the Western District of Washington for further court proceedings, it is hoped that justice will be served, and the severity of his alleged actions will be appropriately addressed.
In conclusion, the arrest of Joseph Schmidt serves as a reminder of the ongoing threat to national security posed by individuals seeking to deliver classified defense information to foreign entities. It is imperative that the United States remains diligent in protecting sensitive information and ensuring the prosecution of those who seek to compromise its security. This case highlights the importance of robust security measures, personnel screening, and close cooperation between agencies to safeguard national interests.
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