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Former CIA Analyst Sentenced for Mishandling Classified Information

A former Central Intelligence Agency (CIA) analyst has been sentenced to 37 months in prison for unlawfully retaining and transmitting classified national defense information

June 18, 2025

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Former CIA Analyst Sentenced for Mishandling Classified Information

A former Central Intelligence Agency (CIA) analyst has been sentenced to 37 months in prison for unlawfully retaining and transmitting classified national defense information, and for taking steps to conceal his actions.

Background on the Case

Asif William Rahman, 34, of Vienna, Virginia, had been employed by the CIA since 2016. He held a Top Secret security clearance with access to Sensitive Compartmented Information (SCI), which permitted him to handle some of the U.S. government's most closely guarded intelligence. Rahman's employment was terminated following his arrest in Cambodia in November 2024.

In January 2025, Rahman pleaded guilty to two counts related to the willful retention and transmission of classified material.

Unlawful Retention and Transmission

According to the U.S. Department of Justice (DoJ), on October 17, 2024, Rahman removed multiple Secret and Top Secret documents from CIA facilities without authorization. He transported them to his home using a backpack and later photographed them.

Rahman subsequently used image editing software to obscure the origins of the classified documents and took steps to erase his tracks. He sent these altered images to individuals who were not authorized to receive such sensitive material.

Among the leaked intelligence were documents related to Israel’s strategic plans regarding Iran. These materials later surfaced on Telegram via an account named “Middle East Spectator,” highlighting the potential geopolitical risks posed by Rahman’s disclosures.

Efforts to Conceal Activity

To hide his actions, Rahman launched what the DoJ described as a “deletion campaign” on his computer. He reportedly deleted approximately 1.5 GB of data from his personal email and work folders. Investigators also discovered that Rahman had edited journal entries to alter or remove his commentary on U.S. foreign policy, suggesting an attempt to suppress evidence of motive or ideological bias.

Legal and National Security Response

Erik S. Siebert, U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of Virginia, emphasized the seriousness of the offense, stating:

“Rahman violated his position of trust by illegally accessing, removing, and transmitting Top Secret documents vital to the national security of the United States and its allies.”

The swift investigation and prosecution reflect the U.S. government’s determination to deter insider threats and uphold the integrity of its national security systems.

This case serves as a cautionary example of the consequences individuals face when they misuse privileged access for personal or ideological reasons, undermining national interests in the process.