FBI Raids John Bolton’s Properties in Renewed Classified Materials Probe

Federal authorities have executed search warrants at former National Security Adviser John Bolton’s Bethesda residence and his Washington, D.C., office, marking a dramatic revival of an investigation long thought to be dormant. The searches come amid renewed scrutiny over allegations that Bolton may have mishandled classified materials—an issue that has once again thrust the former Trump administration official into the national spotlight.

According to sources familiar with the matter, the Justice Department’s renewed interest was prompted by intelligence provided by a foreign spy service and subsequently reviewed by U.S. agencies under the Biden administration. Investigators reportedly presented evidence to federal prosecutors suggesting that Bolton may have retained sensitive documents, including intercepted communications, following his departure from government service.

Although no formal charges have yet been filed, the execution of the warrants represents a serious escalation in the government’s handling of the case. FBI Director Kash Patel underscored the agency’s commitment to accountability, writing on social media that “NO ONE is above the law.” Deputy Director Dan Bongino echoed the sentiment, emphasizing that “public corruption will not be tolerated.”

The development rekindles tensions dating back to 2020, when the Trump administration sought to block publication of Bolton’s memoir, The Room Where It Happened, citing concerns that it contained classified material. A federal judge at the time acknowledged that Bolton may have disclosed sensitive information but ultimately allowed the book’s release.

The investigation had remained quiet in the years since—until recently. Officials say intercepted emails suggested Bolton may have referenced classified content in unsecured communications. During the Trump administration, then-CIA Director John Ratcliffe reportedly briefed Patel on similar concerns, though the case appeared to stall until new intelligence reignited federal interest.

Bolton is now working with veteran defense attorney Abbe Lowell, known for representing a number of high-profile clients facing federal scrutiny. Neither Bolton nor his legal team has publicly commented on the searches, and the FBI has not disclosed what, if anything, was seized during the raids. The warrants remain under seal, leaving many details of the operation shrouded in secrecy.

Former President Donald Trump, meanwhile, has continued to criticize Bolton, calling him “not a smart guy” and “possibly very unpatriotic.” The timing of the searches has fueled speculation among political observers that Trump may still exert influence over certain federal investigations—though there is no evidence linking him directly to this particular probe.

For now, the Justice Department’s investigation remains ongoing. Whether the case leads to charges or simply reaffirms existing concerns about the handling of sensitive materials, the raid underscores the government’s intensifying focus on how former officials manage classified information after leaving office—a matter that continues to test the boundaries of accountability at the highest levels of power.