Sergeant Korbein Shultz Allegedly Traded Sensitive US Military Data for Cash
A Spy Fantasy Gone Wrong
Korbein Shultz, a 24-year-old US Army intelligence officer, faces charges of selling classified military secrets to China. Shultz, stationed at Fort Campbell on the Kentucky-Tennessee border, reportedly told his mysterious contact he wanted to be like the fictional spy Jason Bourne. His desire to live out a spy fantasy led to charges of conspiracy, bribery, and espionage.
Selling Secrets for Money
Shultz used his top-secret clearance to download sensitive government documents, including maps, plans, and defense records. He allegedly shared this data with an individual known only as “Conspirator A” from June 2022 until his arrest. The documents he sent included detailed information on US weapons systems and the military’s plans in the event of a Taiwanese invasion. He even sent a manual on using intercontinental ballistic missiles.
Shultz informed his contact, “I will just keep sending you an abundance of information” after downloading seven more documents in August 2022. Over the course of their relationship, he received at least 14 payments totaling $42,000.
US Army/Department of Defense
The Jason Bourne Fantasy
Shultz openly shared his desire to become like Jason Bourne, a character known for his espionage skills. His contact claimed to live in Hong Kong and work for a geopolitical consulting firm. Much of the information Shultz provided related to China, according to prosecutors.
Breaking Trust and National Security
As an intelligence officer, Shultz’s role was to teach others how to securely handle classified materials. Yet, he violated this responsibility and sold crucial military secrets. His actions jeopardized US national security and broke the trust placed in him.
Military Response and Fallout
The Department of Justice quickly responded to the breach. US Attorney Henry Leventis stated, “The unauthorized sale of such information compromises our safety and cannot be tolerated.” Brigadier General Rhett R. Cox, of the Army Counterintelligence Command, added that the Army must remain vigilant against threats from within.
Shultz had received multiple military awards before his arrest, including the Army Achievement Medal and the Global War on Terrorism Service Medal. His decorated career now stands in stark contrast to the serious charges against him. The Army has vowed to protect national defense information and has urged all personnel to report suspicious activity.
This case highlights the dangers posed by insiders willing to betray national security for financial gain. As Shultz’s trial approaches, the Army and the public await further details about his actions and motivations.
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