FBI Agent Arrested for Allegedly Leaking Classified Information for Book

NEW YORK (AP) — An FBI agent was arrested this week for allegedly disclosing classified information, according to court records filed Tuesday. Johnathan Buma, who has served the bureau for 15 years, faces charges following allegations that he printed confidential FBI documents and messages to share with associates while drafting a book about his experiences at the agency.

Buma was taken into custody Monday at John F. Kennedy International Airport while waiting to board an international flight. Court records indicated that he was attempting to leave the country when authorities apprehended him.

An attorney representing Buma did not respond immediately to a request for comment. The court filing reveals that Buma has publicly criticized the FBI, raising concerns about the agency’s handling of certain investigations through media statements and communications with various governmental bodies, including Congress.

The allegations of unauthorized disclosure of classified information come amid a broader scrutiny of FBI agents and their conduct. The incident has raised questions regarding the measures in place to protect sensitive information and the ongoing conversations about transparency within law enforcement agencies.

In light of Buma’s allegations, policy experts have emphasized the importance of safeguarding classified materials, stating that any disregard for protocol can undermine national security. As this case unfolds, it will likely attract significant attention from both law enforcement and the media, further driving discussions about the complexities of security, accountability, and whistleblowing within the FBI.