Federal prosecutors charge former CIA officer with stealing public funds

Federal agents arrested former CIA officer David Rush on May 19 at his home in Ashburn, Virginia. Court documents state he is charged with submitting false time sheets to collect $77,000 in military leave pay after claiming continued Navy Reserve service past 2015.

A search of the residence uncovered 303 gold bars valued at more than $40 million, $2 million in cash and 35 luxury watches. Prosecutors say Rush created a fictitious top-secret program to obtain government funds for personal use.

Background on employment and military record Rush joined the Ashburn Volunteer Fire and Rescue Department in 2008 while serving in the Navy. Colleagues recalled him describing himself as a Navy fighter pilot who graduated first in his Top Gun class and flew F-14 missions.

Military records show Rush enlisted in 1997, attempted Navy SEAL qualification in 2001, and served as an information systems technician until 2015. He did not hold a pilot’s license, according to federal prosecutors. Rush worked at the CIA from 2009 until his departure under circumstances that remain undisclosed.

He held assignments in the Directorate of Science and Technology and served as a liaison on a nuclear submarine program.

Court proceedings and investigation status A judge ordered Rush detained last week, citing flight-risk concerns. Prosecutors described him as a “master manipulator” during the hearing. His attorney declined to comment. The investigation continues into the origin of the gold, cash and watches; no additional charges have been filed.

Former colleagues at the fire department said they are reassessing stories Rush told them about his military service.