Two sailors from the U.S. Navy were arrested on charges of espionage, accused of leaking sensitive military information to Chinese intelligence operatives. The arrests took place in the Southern and Central Districts of California, spotlighting serious concerns about national security breaches and counterintelligence measures.
Assistant Attorney General Matthew G. Olsen highlighted the gravity of the situation, stating, “These individuals stand accused of violating the commitments they made to protect the United States and betraying the public trust, to the benefit of the PRC government.” As the Department of Justice escalates its actions against such internal threats, the FBI’s focus remains on combating espionage and protecting national interests.
Breaking News: Two U.S. Navy sailors in Southern California were arrested and accused of providing military secrets and sensitive information to Chinese intelligence officers. https://t.co/C22s77OYju
— The New York Times (@nytimes) August 3, 2023
Involvement of High-Ranking Officials
The FBI and the Naval Criminal Investigative Service (NCIS) spearheaded the investigation, leading to the arrest of Jinchao Wei, also known as Patrick Wei, at Naval Base San Diego. Wei, an active-duty sailor on the U.S.S. Essex, allegedly started communicating with a Chinese intelligence officer in February 2022, sharing photos, videos, and critical documents related to U.S. Navy operations.
“Through the alleged crimes committed by these defendants, sensitive military information ended up in the hands of the People’s Republic of China,” stated Matt Olsen, the assistant attorney general for national security at the Department of Justice. Wei faces serious charges for this betrayal, including receiving thousands of dollars in exchange for the compromised information.
Other Espionage Allegations
Meanwhile, Petty Officer Wenheng Zhao, also known as Thomas Zhao, was detained following a federal grand jury indictment. Zhao, stationed at Naval Base Ventura County with a U.S. security clearance, is accused of receiving bribes from a Chinese intelligence officer who posed as a maritime economic researcher. Zhao allegedly transmitted blueprints for a radar system and non-public operational plans for a large military exercise.
“We have entrusted members of our military with tremendous responsibility and great faith,” said U.S. Attorney Randy Grossman for the Southern District of California. “When a soldier or sailor chooses cash over country, and hands over national defense information in an ultimate act of betrayal, the United States will aggressively investigate and prosecute.”
The incident highlights persistent concerns surrounding efforts from foreign intelligence services to undermine U.S. national security. Earlier this year, a Massachusetts Air National Guardsman faced similar charges for leaking classified documents. The FBI and other agencies remain vigilant, urging government officials to report suspicious activities.
