John Bolton pleads guilty to illegally retaining classified information

John Bolton, the former national security adviser under President Trump, pleaded guilty on June 26, 2026, to illegally retaining classified information. This plea deal with federal prosecutors may allow him to avoid a prison sentence, with sentencing scheduled for October 28 by U.S. District Judge Theodore Chuang in Greenbelt, Maryland. Bolton, 77, pleaded guilty to one count of illegally retaining national defense information, which carries a maximum sentence of 10 years. His plea agreement suggests a cap of five years for any prison sentence, although the judge is not obligated to follow this recommendation. Bolton has also agreed to pay a fine of $2.25 million and to forfeit his retirement pay. Additionally, he will submit to a debriefing with federal intelligence officials and perform up to 100 hours of community service. U.S. Attorney Kelly O. Hayes stated that Bolton was aware of the proper handling of classified information and the risks associated with its mishandling. Bolton was previously charged with 18 counts related to the retention and dissemination of classified information, including diary-like notes shared with relatives while writing a memoir. An FBI investigation into Bolton's actions began prior to Trump’s return to the White House in January 2025.