U.S. Govt. worker accused of espionage, collaborating with African nation.
Contractor Charged with Espionage for Sharing Classified Information
OAN’s Stephanie Stahl
4:17 PM – Friday, September 22, 2023
A contractor for the State Department and Justice Department (DOJ) is facing espionage charges for using his security clearance to share “top-secret” information with an African nation.
On Thursday, the Justice Department made an announcement that Abraham Teklu Lemma, 50, has been charged with espionage for transferring classified defense intelligence such as satellite images, maps, and notes to an intelligence official allegedly from Ethiopia.
The DOJ alleges that between December 19, 2022, and August 7, 2023, ”Lemma copied classified information from Intelligence Reports and deleted the classification markings from them,” then took the materials, which had been classified as top secret and secret, from secure State Department facilities.
The affidavit alleges Lemma worked in the IT department at the U.S. Department of State Bureau of Intelligence and Research since at least 2021.
Additionally, Lemma worked as a contract management analyst in the U.S. Department of Justice, meaning he had a top secret security clearance since at least 2020.
The two espionage charges carry a potential sentence of death or any term of years up to life, and the retention charge carries a maximum sentence of 10 years.
This case is being investigated by the FBI’s Washington Field Office, the State Department’s Diplomatic Security Service, and the Justice Department’s Office of the Inspector General.
A federal judge will determine any sentence based on the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.
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What are the potential penalties for charges of espionage, including the offense of retention, and why are they so severe
Rtment Office of Inspector General, and the Diplomatic Security Service. The US government is committed to protecting its classified information and preventing unauthorized disclosure that could harm national security.
Espionage is a serious offense that undermines the integrity of government agencies and puts the country at risk. Abraham Teklu Lemma’s alleged actions of sharing classified defense intelligence with a foreign intelligence official are a direct violation of his duty and trust as a contractor. Such actions can have far-reaching consequences, compromising the safety and security of the United States and its allies.
The information transferred by Lemma includes satellite images, maps, and notes, which are crucial for national defense and military operations. By deleting the classification markings from intelligence reports, Lemma deliberately attempted to conceal his actions and evade detection. This demonstrates a premeditated intent to compromise sensitive information and aid a foreign government.
Lemma’s position within the IT department at the US Department of State Bureau of Intelligence and Research and his top-secret security clearance at the US Department of Justice gave him access to highly classified materials. These clearances are granted based on trust and strict background checks, with the expectation that individuals will handle and protect classified information responsibly. Lemma’s alleged betrayal of this trust is a grave breach of his professional obligations.
The charges of espionage carry severe penalties, including the potential sentence of death or life imprisonment. This underscores the gravity of the offense and the government’s determination to prosecute such cases to the fullest extent of the law. Additionally, the charge of retention, which refers to the unlawful possession of classified information, carries a maximum sentence of 10 years.
The swift and coordinated investigation by the FBI’s Washington Field Office, the State Department Office of Inspector General, and the Diplomatic Security Service highlights the government’s commitment to identifying and apprehending individuals who compromise national security. It also serves as a deterrent, sending a clear message that espionage will not be tolerated, and those who engage in such activities will face severe consequences.
Cases like Lemma’s emphasize the need for robust security measures, continuous monitoring, and stringent protocols within government agencies to safeguard classified information. It is imperative to conduct thorough background checks and regularly review security clearance holders to ensure their ongoing suitability and loyalty.
In conclusion, the arrest and charges brought against Abraham Teklu Lemma highlight the persistent threat of espionage and the government’s unwavering commitment to protecting classified information. These actions underscore the importance of security protocols, continuous monitoring, and strict adherence to the trust bestowed upon individuals granted access to sensitive intelligence. The United States remains resolute in its efforts to combat espionage and safeguard national security.
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