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Virginia IT Specialist Charged with Attempting to Share Classified Information with Foreign Government
A government employee in Virginia faces serious charges after allegedly attempting to share classified information with a foreign government official, the Department of Justice recently reported. This incident highlights growing concerns over insider threats within government agencies.
Details of the Arrest
Nathan Laatsch, a 28-year-old information technology specialist employed by the Defense Intelligence Agency since 2019, was arrested following an FBI investigation that began with a tip-off in March 2025. The informant indicated that an individual was prepared to disclose classified information to a foreign government.
Laatsch’s Role and Security Clearance
As a civilian employee in the Insider Threat Division of the Defense Intelligence Agency, Laatsch held a top secret security clearance. This position granted him access to sensitive information, which he allegedly sought to expose. The Justice Department’s investigation revealed that Laatsch expressed views contrary to the Trump administration’s policies and indicated willingness to share classified information available to him.
Communication with FBI Agents
Evidence suggests that Laatsch communicated with an undercover FBI agent, whom he mistakenly believed to be an official representing a foreign government. These interactions took place over several weeks, during which Laatsch confirmed his willingness to share classified information, which he had recorded on a notepad at his workstation.
Preparation for Information Transfer
During a three-day period, Laatsch is alleged to have secretly exfiltrated classified information from his workplace. On May 1, FBI agents observed him depositing documents at a predetermined location in a northern Virginia park for retrieval by the supposed foreign government.
Discovery of Classified Materials
After Laatsch left the drop site, FBI agents recovered a thumb drive containing materials marked for Secret or Top Secret classification. The thumb drive included a message from Laatsch, where he referred to the shared information as “a decent sample size” that demonstrated the types of classified documents he could access.
Further Communication and Intent
On May 7, following the discovery of the thumb drive, Laatsch contacted the undercover agent, indicating an expectation for compensation in exchange for the classified information. Specifically, he expressed interest in obtaining citizenship from the foreign government, citing dissatisfaction with the long-term prospects in the United States. Laatsch also made it clear that while he was not in immediate need of financial compensation, he was open to various forms of remuneration.
Continuing the Scheme
On May 14, the undercover agent informed Laatsch that the foreign government was interested in acquiring additional classified information. Between May 15 and May 27, Laatsch transcribed more classified information and began concealing it on his person by folding the notes and hiding them in his clothing.
Final Arrest and Legal Proceedings
On Thursday, Laatsch arrived at a designated location in northern Virginia to deliver the information to the foreign entity. Upon receipt of the classified documents, the FBI arrested him.
Next Steps in Legal Action
Laatsch’s first court appearance is scheduled for Friday in the Eastern District of Virginia, where he will face charges related to his alleged attempts to share classified information.
Broader Implications for National Security
This case raises significant concerns regarding national security and insider threats within federal agencies. As the digital age evolves, so too does the risk of classified information being mishandled or deliberately shared with foreign interests. Law enforcement and governmental agencies remain vigilant in their efforts to deter such actions and safeguard sensitive information.
This incident serves as a reminder of the importance of maintaining strict adherence to security protocols and the ongoing vigilance required to prevent breaches of trust and security within government institutions.
