U.S. Navy Sailor Convicted Of Selling Secrets To China For $12,000

Naval Base San Diego — Image Credits: Wikipedia

A U.S. Navy sailor has been found guilty of spying for China after leaking sensitive military information in exchange for $12,000.

On August 20, a federal jury convicted 22-year-old Jinchao Wei, also known as Patrick Wei, of six charges, including conspiracy to commit espionage, espionage, and multiple counts of unlawful export and conspiracy to export defense-related technical data.

The verdict came after a five-day trial and one day of jury deliberation. Wei is scheduled to be sentenced on December 1.

Wei was serving as a machinist’s mate aboard the amphibious assault ship USS Essex at Naval Base San Diego when he passed information to a Chinese intelligence officer. He held a U.S. security clearance that gave him access to sensitive defense information about the ship’s systems.

Evidence presented at trial showed that in February 2022, Wei was contacted on social media by someone claiming to be a naval enthusiast. The individual was later identified as an intelligence officer for the People’s Republic of China.

Between February 2022 and his arrest in August 2023, Wei developed a relationship with the officer and, at their request, sent extensive material about the Essex. This included photographs, videos, technical manuals, details of its weapons systems, and information about ship movements. He also provided classified data about other Navy vessels that he obtained from restricted computer systems.

In return, the Chinese officer paid Wei more than $12,000 over 18 months. Trial evidence also revealed messages and conversations between Wei and his handler, showing the methods they used to conceal their activities, the tasks given to Wei, and how he was compensated for his work.

Justice Department officials described Wei’s actions as a serious betrayal. Assistant Attorney General for National Security John A. Eisenberg said that Wei had taken an oath to protect the nation but “sold out his country for $12,000.”

According to Eisenberg, the sailor violated his duty, betrayed his fellow servicemen, and turned his back on the United States for money. He said the conviction should serve as a warning to anyone tempted to abuse their position of trust for financial gain.

U.S. Attorney Adam Gordon for the Southern District of California said Wei’s actions risked the lives of his fellow sailors, the security of the nation, and the safety of allies.

Wei was also convicted of violating the Arms Export Control Act, which prohibits the export of certain defense-related technical data without State Department approval. Prosecutors said he worked with his Chinese handler to illegally export restricted information without the required license.

Reference: US department of justice

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