Bolton pleads not guilty to charges of sharing classified information

October 17, 2025

John Bolton, former national security adviser to Donald Trump, has pleaded not guilty to 18 charges related to mishandling classified information. Prosecutors allege Bolton shared sensitive materials through personal messaging apps and email, including what they describe as "diary-like entries" containing intelligence about foreign threats and policy relations. The 76-year-old Bolton, who has become one of Trump's most vocal critics after leaving the White House, claims his actions were lawful and that he is being targeted through a weaponized Justice Department.

Who is affected

John Bolton, former national security adviser
Donald Trump, as Bolton is his former adviser and current critic
Two unnamed individuals who allegedly received sensitive information from Bolton
Potentially national security interests, as prosecutors claim documents revealed intelligence about future attacks and foreign relations

What action is being taken

Bolton is pleading not guilty to 18 charges of mishandling classified information
Prosecutors are pursuing charges that Bolton shared or retained sensitive materials
The FBI is conducting an active investigation, having searched Bolton's house and office in August
The Justice Department is processing the case, with a hearing scheduled for November 21
Bolton is being released on his own recognizance while the case proceeds

Why it matters

Bolton becomes the third of Trump's political opponents to face charges in recent weeks, following James Comey and Letitia James
The case raises questions about the potential weaponization of the Justice Department against political opponents
It highlights concerns about the handling and security of classified information by former officials
The indictment reveals Bolton was allegedly targeted by Iranian hackers who accessed his account, potentially exposing classified materials
The case occurs within the context of Bolton's contentious relationship with Trump, including Trump's revocation of Bolton's security detail

What's next

A hearing in the case is scheduled for November 21

Read full article from source: BBC