Ex-Sergeant Charged With Spying For China
In a chilling revelation that underscores the importance of maintaining national security, former U.S. Army Sergeant Joseph Daniel Schmidt, 29, was arrested by the Department of Justice (DOJ) on Friday for alleged attempts to deliver classified defense information to China.
Schmidt’s troubling history emerged starkly in recent disclosures. He served from January 2015 to January 2020 in the 109th Military Intelligence Battalion, stationed at Joint Base Lewis-McChord (JBLM) in western Washington. This crucial assignment endowed him with access to both classified and top-secret information.
His treacherous activities reportedly began shortly after his military separation. According to investigations, he contacted the Chinese Consulate in Turkey, using email as his conduit. In his correspondence, Schmidt openly revealed his possession of a top-secret U.S. government security clearance and expertise in surveillance detection and spy operations. Offering his knowledge, he sought a direct meeting with Chinese leadership.
To make matters worse, investigators unearthed a Word document from Schmidt’s Apple iCloud account titled “Important Information to Share with the Chinese Government.” This document, which the Army later verified, contained sensitive material.
Schmidt’s overseas endeavors only deepened the intrigue. “In March 2020, Schmidt traveled to Hong Kong and allegedly continued his efforts to provide Chinese intelligence with classified information he obtained from his military service,” the Department of Justice (DOJ) shared. It’s believed he retained a device enabling access to secure U.S. military networks. This device, he allegedly handed to Chinese authorities.
Before he could further his intentions, Schmidt was apprehended at an airport as he sought to depart Hong Kong for San Francisco.
Reacting to these revelations, Assistant Attorney General for National Security Matthew G. Olsen emphasized, “Individuals entrusted with national defense information have a continuing duty to protect that information beyond their government service and certainly beyond our borders.” Olsen’s message was clear: there’s a duty that transcends borders and retirement – the duty to protect one’s nation.
Acting U.S. Attorney Tessa M. Gorman for the Western District of Washington echoed similar sentiments. Describing Schmidt’s actions as “shocking,” she praised the FBI for their dedication, noting that their efforts halted this potential betrayal.
As it stands, if convicted, Schmidt faces significant penalties. Each count against him carries a potential 10-year prison sentence and a fine that could be as steep as $250,000.
While profoundly concerning, the incident is a solid testament to the vigilant efforts of agencies like the FBI and the U.S. Army Counterintelligence Command, both of which remain engaged in the ongoing investigation.
While our brave men and women overseas continue to defend freedom, this incident is a grim reminder that threats can emerge closer to home. Our nation’s security isn’t just an external concern but a domestic one.
