A former Army sergeant received a prison sentence for an attempted espionage case. A federal judge sentenced Joseph Daniel Schmidt to four years in prison. Schmidt previously pleaded guilty to attempting to provide secrets to China. This attempted espionage case highlights ongoing counterintelligence concerns. The sentencing occurred in a Seattle courtroom on Tuesday.
Schmidt served in a military intelligence battalion until 2020. He held a top-secret security clearance during his service. Consequently, he had access to highly sensitive defense information. After leaving the Army, he traveled to Hong Kong. He then initiated contact with Chinese officials. He offered them classified material he had created.
Prosecutors detailed his actions in court documents. Schmidt retained a device for accessing secure Army networks. He also used his intelligence training to compromise secrets. He even researched extradition laws for treason. The judge considered his mental health as a mitigating factor. Schmidt had experienced a mental health spiral before his separation.
Authorities confirmed this attempted espionage case did not succeed. They believe no classified information actually reached China. The FBI and Army Counterintelligence Command investigated thoroughly. An acting U.S. attorney condemned Schmidt’s actions as unconscionable. He stated Schmidt put his country and colleagues at great risk.
This attempted espionage case is part of a broader pattern. U.S. officials consistently warn about foreign recruitment efforts. China actively targets individuals with security clearances. The sentencing serves as a stark warning to others. It demonstrates the serious consequences of betraying national trust. The court also ordered three years of supervised release.
