In a significant case highlighting the ongoing challenges of safeguarding national security, former U.S. Army Sergeant Joseph Daniel Schmidt has pleaded guilty to federal charges related to his attempts to provide classified military information to Chinese authorities. This development underscores the critical importance of vigilance within military ranks and the severe consequences of betraying national trust.
Background and Military Service
Joseph Daniel Schmidt, 31, served as an active-duty soldier from January 2015 to January 2020. His final assignment was with the 109th Military Intelligence Battalion at Joint Base Lewis-McChord (JBLM) in Washington State. This battalion specializes in signals intelligence (SIGINT) and cybersecurity operations, granting Schmidt access to highly sensitive information. His security clearances permitted him to handle both SECRET and TOP SECRET materials, placing him in a position of significant trust and responsibility.
Unauthorized Contact with Chinese Intelligence
Following his departure from the military in January 2020, Schmidt initiated unauthorized communications with Chinese intelligence services. He first reached out to the Chinese Consulate in Turkey and subsequently established direct contact with Chinese security officials via encrypted email channels. In March 2020, Schmidt traveled to Hong Kong, where he continued to engage with Chinese operatives.
During these interactions, Schmidt offered to provide classified documents and a specialized device designed for accessing secure military computer networks. This device, likely a Common Access Card (CAC) reader or similar hardware authentication tool, is integral to the Defense Information Systems Network (DISN) operations. By offering this device, Schmidt aimed to enhance China’s cyber espionage capabilities, posing a significant threat to U.S. national security.
Legal Proceedings and Charges
Schmidt’s activities came to a halt in October 2023 when he attempted to return to the United States via San Francisco International Airport. Upon arrival, he was arrested following a comprehensive investigation by the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), with assistance from the U.S. Army Counterintelligence Command.
On June 18, 2025, Schmidt pleaded guilty in the U.S. District Court in Seattle to two federal felonies:
1. Attempt to Deliver National Defense Information: This charge pertains to his efforts to transmit classified military information to a foreign government, violating the Espionage Act.
2. Retention of National Defense Information: This charge relates to his unauthorized possession and retention of classified materials after his military service ended.
Each charge carries a maximum penalty of ten years in federal prison and a fine of up to $250,000. Schmidt’s sentencing is scheduled for September 9, 2025.
Implications and National Security Concerns
This case serves as a stark reminder of the persistent threats posed by foreign intelligence operations targeting U.S. military personnel. The Department of Justice emphasized the gravity of Schmidt’s actions, noting that his attempts to share sensitive information could have severely compromised national security.
Brigadier General Rhett R. Cox, Commanding General of the Army Counterintelligence Command, stated, This soldier swore an oath to faithfully discharge his duties, to include protecting national defense information. Not only did he fail in his sworn duty, but he placed personal gain above his duty to our country and disclosed information that could give advantage to a foreign nation, putting his fellow soldiers in jeopardy.
The FBI and U.S. Army Counterintelligence Command continue to investigate and address such breaches to ensure the integrity of national defense information. This case underscores the importance of stringent security protocols and the need for continuous vigilance to protect against insider threats.
Conclusion
The guilty plea of former Sergeant Joseph Daniel Schmidt highlights the severe consequences of attempting to betray national trust by sharing classified information with foreign entities. As the United States faces ongoing challenges in safeguarding its national security, this case reinforces the critical importance of maintaining the integrity and confidentiality of sensitive military information.
