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A US Army Intelligence Analyst, who faced accusations of selling classified US military information to a Chinese intelligence operative, has pleaded guilty in federal court.
What’s the deal: Sgt. Korbein Schultz, a 24-year-old Army intelligence analyst holding a top-secret security clearance, was accused of selling classified US military information to a foreign national. According to prosecutors, Schultz provided a foreign national residing in Hong Kong with classified US military information. This included documents, photographs, and materials concerning the High Mobility Artillery Rocket System, hypersonic equipment, strategic military operations and drills, particularly in major countries like China. He also shared specific Air Force Tactics Techniques and Procedures manuals for the HH-60W helicopter, F22-A fighter aircraft, and intercontinental ballistic missiles.
How he was paid: According to prosecutors, Schultz received payments from Conspirator A, who claimed to work for an overseas geopolitical consulting firm. In exchange for the sensitive national defense information he provided, Schultz was compensated with at least 14 payments totaling approximately $42,000. Initially, he was paid $200 for insights on Russia’s war with Ukraine and its implications for US military strategy in Taiwan.
What his lawyer is saying: In a statement, Kathryn Harcombe, Schultz’s attorney, said, “Mr. Schultz has decided to change his plea of not guilty to a plea of guilty pursuant to an agreement with the government.”
What the US government previously said: Upon announcing charges against Schultz, Assistant Attorney General Matthew G. Olsen of the Justice Department’s National Security Division said, “Betrayal does not pay—the Department of Justice is committed to identifying and holding accountable those who would break their oath to protect our nation’s secrets.”
