Former CIA Officer Found with 303 Gold Bars, Arrested on Theft Charges
FBI agents raided the home of a high-ranking CIA officer, discovering 303 gold bars, $2 million in cash, and over 30 luxury watches. He was ordered held without bail.
Former CIA Officer Found with 303 Gold Bars, Arrested on Theft Charges
FBI agents conducted a raid on May 19 at the residence of David R., a senior officer at the U.S. Central Intelligence Agency. During the search, law enforcement discovered 303 gold bars, two million dollars in cash, and more than 30 luxury timepieces.
A judge ordered the man held in custody without bail on Friday, citing the "danger he may pose to the community" while the case proceeds.
According to reporting by The New York Times, David R. had worked in one of the CIA's most secretive divisions — the Directorate of Science and Technology. This unit oversees advanced espionage technology, cyber operations, and specialized equipment.
Sources cited by NBC News stated that the detained officer had served as a liaison to the Pentagon regarding a sensitive program involving nuclear-powered submarines.
The New York Times further reported that investigators believe the suspect acquired the gold because the metal is commonly used to fund covert government operations while avoiding detection of financial transactions.
Court documents referenced by the newspaper indicate that "from November 2024 to March 2025, Mr. R. demanded and received tens of millions of dollars in gold bars and foreign currency for 'work-related expenses.'"
Following the arrest, the CIA placed several employees on administrative leave.
Prosecutors have charged David R. with theft of public funds. The case description suggests the investigation is significantly broader. Investigators suspect the former officer embezzled funds from the agency and spent years falsifying information about his education and professional background, including lying about pilot qualifications.
American media have noted the unusual nature of the case. So far, R. has not been formally charged with espionage, corruption, or treason — charges that have appeared in similar past cases. According to The New York Times, investigators are still analyzing the source of the money he accumulated.
Source: Interia, citing NBC News and The New York Times
Source: Interia