Army sergeant Jian Zhao is accused of selling classified military hard drives and documents to buyers in China, allegedly making thousands of dollars in the process
An active-duty U.S. Army sergeant has been arrested and charged with selling sensitive military information to Chinese operatives in a scheme prosecutors say endangered national security.
Jian Zhao, a supply sergeant at Joint Base Lewis-McChord in Washington state, is accused of conspiring with an unnamed co-conspirator to sell encrypted military computers and at least 20 classified hard drives containing top-secret information. Prosecutors say he received thousands of dollars in payments and actively sought to profit from his access to sensitive data.
Federal investigators say Zhao secretly photographed military documents and negotiated their sale to multiple buyers in China. Court documents reveal he discussed the risks with his co-conspirator, allegedly saying, “If you can guarantee both of our safety while making some money for both of us, sell it.”
In a separate but related case, another soldier, Li Tian, has been charged with leaking sensitive details about U.S. Army fighting vehicles to a former soldier, Ruoyu Duan. Both were arrested Thursday and face bribery and theft charges.
Attorney General Pam Bondi condemned the alleged crimes, calling them an act of betrayal that “empowered our adversaries in China.” FBI Director Kash Patel echoed the sentiment, vowing that the accused will “face American justice.”
Prosecutors say Zhao’s conduct was particularly egregious, not just for the classified material he allegedly stole but for his repeated statements about wanting to return to China. They argue he is a flight risk and should remain in custody while awaiting trial.
Investigators also believe Zhao may have hidden additional stolen data in an undisclosed warehouse. Authorities are working to locate the missing information and determine if any other sensitive materials have been compromised.
The arrests come amid heightened concerns over foreign espionage and efforts by China to acquire U.S. military intelligence. As the case unfolds, officials warn that security breaches like this highlight the persistent threats facing America’s national defense.
