Justice Department Leaders Advocate for Charging John Bolton Over Alleged Mishandling of Classified Documents

Senior Justice Department officials are advocating for charges against former National Security Adviser John Bolton this week, alleging mishandling of classified documents. However, some prosecutors believe a stronger case could be developed by the end of the year and caution that premature action might weaken the case.

An attorney from the Deputy Attorney General's office has urged the Maryland U.S. Attorney's office to file charges against Bolton by Friday. In contrast, prosecutors from that office and a top national security prosecutor in Washington, D.C., have resisted this timeline, considering it too aggressive. One Justice Department official is contemplating withdrawing from the case in opposition to the directive.

Investigators have previously seized numerous records from Bolton's home and office, some marked as classified. Further examination of the evidence and additional witness interviews may be necessary before proceeding with charges.

Bolton's attorney, Abbe Lowell, stated that the documents in question date back to Bolton's tenure in the George W. Bush administration and asserted that a thorough review would demonstrate that Bolton's handling of the documents was appropriate.

The Justice Department and Bolton's legal team have declined to comment further on the matter.