Trump critic John Bolton to plead guilty in classified documents case, pay $2 million fine
WASHINGTON, DC: John Bolton, a former national security adviser to President Donald Trump and one of his most outspoken critics, is expected to plead guilty in a federal classified documents case and pay a $2 million fine.
According to a CNN report published on Thursday, June 4, Bolton is expected to admit to one count of illegally retaining sensitive national security documents as part of a plea agreement, a source familiar with the matter told the network.
The development marks a significant turn in a case that has drawn attention because of Bolton’s prominent role in Republican foreign policy circles and his increasingly public criticism of Trump since leaving the administration.
Charges stem from handling of sensitive records
Bolton surrendered to federal authorities in October 2025 after being charged under the Espionage Act over allegations that he improperly retained and shared classified information.
A 26-page federal indictment filed in Maryland contained 18 counts and accused Bolton of unlawfully transmitting and retaining highly sensitive national security materials.
According to prosecutors, some of the documents included diary entries and notes detailing his activities while serving as national security adviser in the Trump White House.
The records allegedly contained information from classified meetings, intelligence briefings and other sensitive government settings.
Family members allegedly received information
Investigators alleged that Bolton shared portions of the material with two individuals identified by sources as his wife and daughter.
Prosecutors argued that the notes provided detailed accounts of Bolton’s daily responsibilities and interactions while serving in one of the government's most sensitive national security positions.
The case focused on whether the handling and dissemination of the information violated federal laws governing classified material and national defense information.
John Bolton previously denied wrongdoing
When the charges were first announced, Bolton strongly rejected the allegations and accused the Trump administration of using the justice system for political purposes.
He insisted that his actions were lawful and pledged to challenge the case in court. “I will defend my lawful conduct and expose President Trump’s abuse of power,” Bolton said at the time.
The expected guilty plea would represent a dramatic reversal from his earlier stance and bring to a close one of the most high-profile classified documents investigations involving a former senior Trump administration official.
