Former U.S. National Security Advisor John Bolton has pleaded not guilty to all charges at his first court hearing. The session took place on October 17 in Greenbelt, Maryland, CNN reported.
According to court documents, Bolton faces 18 charges related to the mishandling of classified information. He refused to speak to journalists in court and declared his innocence. Later, he was released on the condition that he would not leave the city. The next hearing is scheduled for November 21.
Investigators say that in July 2021 Bolton informed the FBI that his email had been hacked by individuals linked to the Iranian government, but he failed to disclose that he had used that account to send classified information.
Federal agents determined that he shared state secrets through his personal email and messaging applications. These included notes from meetings with foreign leaders, details of planned U.S. military operations, and aspects of U.S. foreign policy strategy. Reports also indicate that Bolton forwarded some of these materials to his wife and daughter.
On August 22, 2025, the FBI searched Bolton’s home and office. The search uncovered classified documents concerning weapons of mass destruction, the U.S. mission to the UN, and strategic government communications.
On October 16, a grand jury formally indicted Bolton for mishandling classified materials. He faces eight counts of transmitting classified information to third parties and ten counts of unlawful possession of such documents. Each charge carries a maximum penalty of ten years in prison.
John Bolton, who served as National Security Advisor under Donald Trump, is known for his hardline stance on foreign policy. His case has sparked significant political debate in Washington.
Experts believe the trial could strengthen discipline in handling classified materials and increase oversight of government officials in the future.
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