In a major national security case, Courtney Williams, a former Army employee, has been arrested by the FBI and charged by a federal grand jury for allegedly leaking classified defense information. The case also involves key officials such as Assistant Attorney General John A. Eisenberg, U.S. Attorney Ellis Boyle, and FBI officials Roman Rozhavsky and Reid Davis, all of whom highlighted the seriousness of the allegations.
Williams, 40, previously worked with a special military unit from 2010 to 2016. During this time, Williams held a Top Secret / Sensitive Compartmented Information (SCI) clearance. This clearance gave access to highly sensitive national defense information.
As part of the role, Williams received training on how to properly handle and protect classified information. Williams also signed a nondisclosure agreement confirming that sharing such information without authorization could lead to criminal charges.
Authorities stated that individuals with security clearance must follow strict rules. These rules are designed to protect national security and ensure that sensitive information does not fall into the wrong hands.
The charges in this case fall under a U.S. law that makes it illegal to share national defense information with unauthorized individuals. Officials stressed that violating this law can put the country, its military personnel, and its allies at risk.
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Alleged Communication and Information Leaks
According to court documents, between 2022 and 2025, Williams communicated frequently with a journalist. These interactions included more than 10 hours of phone calls and over 180 text messages.
In one message, the journalist identified themselves and said they were working on an article and a book. They requested information about the special military unit where Williams had worked.
Authorities allege that Williams shared sensitive details during these conversations. Some of this information was later published in an article and a book. The publications reportedly named Williams as a source and included specific statements attributed to her.
Officials claim that some of the disclosed information was classified and related to national defense. Such information may include details about military operations, tactics, and techniques, which are meant to remain confidential.
In addition to communicating with the journalist, Williams is also accused of sharing classified information on social media. These actions increased the risk of sensitive details becoming publicly accessible.
On the day the article and book were released, Williams reportedly exchanged messages with the journalist. In one message, she expressed concern about the amount of classified information being disclosed.
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Messages sent to others also showed awareness of possible legal consequences. Williams reportedly stated that there was a chance of being arrested for sharing classified information. In another message, Williams mentioned the possibility of facing life in prison and referred to a provision under the Espionage Act. Williams also indicated that the risks were known throughout the career.
Investigation and Legal Proceedings
The case is being investigated by the FBI’s Charlotte Field Office. Officials involved in counterintelligence described the allegations as serious and emphasized the importance of protecting classified information.
Assistant Director Roman Rozhavsky stated that unauthorized disclosures can damage national security. FBI Special Agent in Charge Reid Davis added that military methods and techniques are highly classified and must only be shared with authorized individuals.
The prosecution team includes Assistant U.S. Attorney Logan Liles, along with Trial Attorneys Menno Goedman and Matt Hracho. Additional assistance has been provided by another U.S. Attorney’s Office.
Officials stated that individuals who handle classified information are repeatedly trained on the consequences of unauthorized disclosure. Despite this, authorities allege that Williams continued to share sensitive information over several years.
The accusations highlight concerns about protecting national defense information. Officials warned that unauthorized leaks can harm military operations and put lives at risk.
An indictment is a formal accusation and does not mean guilt. Williams is presumed innocent unless proven guilty in a court of law.