CIA official with top-secret clearance pleads guilty to $194 million government fraud scheme involving gold bars, luxury homes

David J. Rush, 49, of Ashburn, Virginia, pleaded guilty to carrying out the massive fraud while serving in a senior executive-level position at the CIA, according to the Department of Justice. Federal prosecutors said Rush used his government position to create fictitious authorities, including a fabricated Special Access Program, in order to obtain government funds for his own benefit. In total, Rush fraudulently obtained approximately $193.6 million from the federal government.

Once he obtained the money, prosecutors said Rush purchased gold and directed approximately $145 million through wire transfers that were ultimately used to acquire luxury real estate, watches, and at least one vehicle.

The FBI searched Rush's Virginia residence on May 19 and discovered 298 gold bars, approximately $2.1 million in cash, €104,795 and numerous luxury watches. Prosecutors said the gold alone cost the government approximately $46 million.

Under his plea agreement, Rush agreed to forfeit the gold, currency, fraudulently obtained properties, 30 watches, many of them Rolexes, and two 2026 BMW Alpina vehicles. At least one of the cars was valued at approximately $172,000.

Rush held a Top Secret/Sensitive Compartmented Information security clearance and reached his senior government position in part by lying about his education and military experience, according to court documents cited by prosecutors.

CIA Director John Ratcliffe said the agency uncovered the potential criminal activity through an internal investigation and immediately referred the matter to the FBI. “David Rush abused his position and betrayed the public trust and should be held fully accountable for his actions,” Ratcliffe said. “The Agency is committed to ensuring that those entrusted with our Nation’s secrets are held to the absolute highest standard.”

FBI Director Kash Patel said Rush “defrauded the government of hundreds of millions of dollars and then misused those funds for extravagant purchases.”

“Rush betrayed his oath, his co-workers, and the American people, and he will now face justice for his actions,” Patel added.

Assistant Attorney General for National Security John A. Eisenberg highlighted the extraordinary haul, saying Rush defrauded the United States of approximately $194 million in real estate, jewelry and other property, “including 298 gold bars.”

Attorney General Todd Blanche said the case demonstrated the Trump administration's commitment to prosecuting fraud within the federal government. “Federal employees are entrusted with serving the American people, not themselves,” Blanche said. “The Trump Administration is committed to rooting out waste, fraud, and abuse in the federal government, including by prosecuting those who foolishly defraud American taxpayers.”

Rush is scheduled to be sentenced on Jan. 28, 2027. He faces up to 20 years in federal prison, along with three years of supervised release, restitution, forfeiture, and a fine.