WASHINGTON (Midtown Times) — Former National Security Adviser John Bolton pleaded guilty Friday to a federal charge involving the unauthorized retention of classified national defense information stemming from his service during President Donald Trump’s first administration.
Appearing before a federal judge in Greenbelt, Maryland, Bolton admitted to one count of unlawfully retaining sensitive national defense material. During the hearing, he accepted responsibility for his actions and expressed remorse, telling the court, “I am sorry for it.”
As part of a plea agreement with federal prosecutors, Bolton faces a potential prison sentence of up to five years. He also agreed to pay a $2.25 million fine, with half of that amount due within five days after sentencing. In addition, Bolton agreed to relinquish retirement benefits connected to his federal government service for both himself and his family.
U.S. District Judge Theodore D. Chuang scheduled Bolton’s sentencing for Oct. 28. Following Friday’s hearing, Bolton was released pending sentencing and allowed to return home.
The case stems from an indictment returned against Bolton last October concerning his handling of classified government information after leaving public office.
