CIA Officer Arrested with Gold Bars Linked to Defense Deputy

6 days ago 0

David Rush, a CIA officer, was arrested last week after authorities discovered over $40 million in gold bars at his residence. Current and former U.S. officials noted that he once worked with Stephen A. Feinberg, now the deputy secretary of defense.

Rush, 49, served in the CIA’s Directorate of Science and Technology for 17 years and held a senior rank before his arrest on May 18. He first interacted with Feinberg on the President’s Intelligence Advisory Board during the Trump administration. This board provides intelligence advice to the White House and other agencies.

Officials mention that Rush and Feinberg did not work closely. However, Feinberg has shown interest in CIA technology and the agency’s Directorate of Science and Technology during his tenure on the advisory board and at the Pentagon.

Questions remain about Rush’s possession of the gold bars and why the agency issued them to him. Former officials suggest he was involved in a covert program, providing access to substantial money.

According to those informed about the investigation, Feinberg and the Pentagon were not linked to Rush’s activities involving the gold bars. The Pentagon and CIA have not commented on the situation.

Rush is currently in jail, facing charges of stealing public funds by submitting false time sheets. Court documents allege he inflated his academic credentials and provided false information about his employment history.

The case against Rush has raised more questions than answers. Between November and March, court documents state that Rush requested and received tens of millions in gold and foreign currency for “work-related expenses.” However, a CIA review failed to account for the gold and currency.

Alerted by the CIA, the FBI searched Rush’s home, discovering 303 gold bars, each weighing approximately 2.2 pounds.

Julian E. Barnes, a journalist for The Times, covers U.S. intelligence and security. He has over 20 years of experience covering these issues. Mark Mazzetti is an investigative reporter focused on national security and foreign affairs. He is based in Washington, D.C. and has authored a book on the CIA.