Former Central Intelligence Agency official David Rush, who is accused of stealing more than $40 million and converting the proceeds into gold bars and other valuables, allegedly created a fictitious intelligence program that he used to siphon millions of dollars in government funds for personal gain.
Rush established a fraudulent “special access program,” one of the government’s most tightly controlled classification systems, which restricts oversight from even officials with the highest security clearance, the Washington Post reported. He allegedly falsely presented the project as a highly sensitive continuity-of-government initiative, which is a type of emergency planning designed to ensure the federal government can continue operating during catastrophic events such as a nuclear attack.
The sources said Rush “read in” two colleagues to the purported program, granting them access to the fabricated operation and effectively preventing them from discussing it with others because of its supposed sensitivity. The employees may have been unwitting participants in the scheme, with Rush persuading one of his colleagues to direct millions of dollars to the program through a fraudulent government contract.
A federal judge on Friday ordered that Rush remain in custody, citing a significant risk that he could flee. The Justice Department has described him as a “master manipulator” who “cannot be trusted.” Rush was arrested by the FBI on May 19 after an internal CIA investigation uncovered what officials characterized as potential criminal misconduct.
When agents searched Rush’s home, investigators found 303 gold bars valued at more than $40 million, approximately $2 million in cash, and more than 30 luxury Rolex watches. Prosecutors contend Rush converted the allegedly stolen funds into commodities and other assets in an effort to conceal and diversify his wealth.
Following the arrest, the CIA and FBI issued a joint statement saying CIA Director John Ratcliffe referred information uncovered during the agency’s internal investigation to federal law enforcement authorities.
“The FBI is working with partners at the CIA and DOJ,” the agencies said. “As we continue to fully investigate this matter, we’re committed to following the facts, ensuring accountability, and pursuing justice in accordance with the law.”
Rush has not entered a plea. Portions of the case remain under seal, and additional proceedings are expected as investigators continue examining the alleged scheme.
EX-CIA OFFICER ACCUSED OF STEALING $40 MILLION IN GOLD BARS TO REMAIN JAILED
The case has sent shockwaves through the intelligence community and comes as President Donald Trump has signaled support for reducing the number of employees working for U.S. intelligence agencies under incoming Director of National Intelligence Bill Pulte.
“I wouldn’t mind if he cut,” Trump told reporters aboard Air Force One on Friday. “It’s been high for way too long.”