Former National Security Adviser John Bolton pleads guilty to illegally retaining classified information.

John Bolton pleaded guilty on June 26, 2026, to one count of illegally retaining classified national defense information in diary-like notes shared with family members. Under the plea agreement, he faces up to five years in prison, a $2.25 million fine, forfeiture of his federal pension, and 100 hours of community service. Sentencing is scheduled for October 28, 2026.