A seasoned FBI agent who previously voiced concerns about the bureau's operations during President Donald Trump's administration found himself in legal trouble at JFK International Airport.
According to Fox News, Johnathan Buma, a 15-year FBI veteran, was arrested Monday while attempting to board an international flight after allegedly sharing confidential FBI documents and messages to write a book about his career at the federal agency.
The arrest stems from accusations that Buma printed approximately 130 classified FBI files and shared them with associates while seeking a publishing deal. The sensitive materials included information about FBI investigations into a foreign country's weapons of mass destruction program. He also allegedly posted excerpts containing confidential information on social media platforms.
Buma's relationship with the bureau had been strained for years, particularly during Trump's presidency. His concerns about the FBI's handling of certain investigations led him to reach out to various government agencies, Congress members, and media outlets in 2022.
In September 2023, Buma participated in an interview with Insider where he discussed his experiences at the bureau. He claimed that when he raised concerns about potential Russian influence on Rudy Giuliani, who worked for the Trump campaign, his superior dismissed the matter. Conversely, Buma stated that the same superior showed keen interest when he brought up Hunter Biden's alleged dealings with Ukrainian energy company Burisma.
The agent's recent actions appear to be an extension of his ongoing criticism of the bureau's operations and decision-making processes during politically sensitive investigations.
Court documents reveal that Buma took significant steps toward publishing his experiences. In November 2023, he sent an email to personal associates who were helping him negotiate a potential book deal.
The court document states:
The book draft contained information that BUMA obtained through his position as an FBI Special Agent that relates to the FBI's efforts and investigations into a foreign country's weapons of mass destruction ('WMD') program.
The disclosure of classified information has resulted in Buma being charged with one misdemeanor count. The U.S. Attorney's Office Central District of California confirmed his release on a $100,000 bond.
The case highlights the delicate balance between whistleblowing and maintaining confidentiality within federal law enforcement agencies. Buma's arrest raises questions about the proper channels for addressing concerns within the FBI.
The incident occurs at a time when the FBI continues to face scrutiny over its handling of politically sensitive investigations. The arrest of a veteran agent for allegedly mishandling classified information adds another layer to ongoing discussions about accountability within the bureau.
The timing of Buma's arrest, just as he was preparing to leave the country, suggests careful monitoring of his activities by federal authorities. This development may impact future cases involving FBI personnel who consider publishing accounts of their service.
Johnathan Buma, a 15-year veteran of the Federal Bureau of Investigation, was arrested at JFK International Airport while attempting to board an international flight. The arrest followed his alleged disclosure of approximately 130 classified FBI files and messages, which he intended to use in a book about his career. He faces a misdemeanor charge of disclosing confidential information, with the case highlighting tensions between agency loyalty and personal conviction. The U.S. Attorney's Office Central District of California has confirmed his release on a $100,000 bond while legal proceedings continue.
