FBI Raids Former National Security Adviser John Bolton’s Home in Classified Documents Probe
FBI agents raided the Bethesda, Maryland, home of former National Security Adviser John Bolton early Friday morning, investigating potential mishandling of classified documents. The operation, ordered by FBI Director Kash Patel, involved searching Bolton’s residence and office for evidence of national security breaches, amid accusations of political motives linked to Bolton’s criticism of President Trump. No charges have been filed, but the probe highlights ongoing tensions over government records and accountability, with agents entering the property at 7 a.m. while Bolton was reportedly not present.
Details of the FBI Raid on John Bolton’s Home
The raid took place at Bolton’s residence in Bethesda, Maryland, beginning at approximately 7 a.m. on Friday, 22 August 2025. Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) agents conducted a thorough search of both his home and office, focusing on potential evidence related to the mishandling of classified information. The operation was authorised as part of an ongoing probe ordered by FBI Director Kash Patel, a known ally of President Donald Trump. Sources indicate that Bolton was not at home during the search, and he has not been detained or charged at this time.
According to reports, the investigation stems from concerns over national security breaches, potentially linked to Bolton’s handling of sensitive materials during his tenure as National Security Adviser from 2018 to 2019. This probe revives earlier scrutiny from 2020, when Bolton’s memoir “The Room Where It Happened” faced Department of Justice attempts to block its publication over classified content allegations, though those charges were dropped under the Biden administration. The current search appears to resurrect those issues, with agents “going through things” in a high-profile action that has drawn immediate political commentary.
Bolton, a vocal critic of Trump since his dismissal in 2019, has accused the administration of weaponising federal agencies for retribution. His lawyer stated that Bolton is cooperating fully, but the timing—amid Bolton’s ongoing public criticisms—has fueled speculation of political motivation. No items were reportedly seized during the raid, but the investigation continues, with potential implications for other former officials who have clashed with the Trump administration.
Political Context and Accusations of Retaliation
The raid has intensified accusations that it is politically motivated, given Bolton’s history as a Trump critic. Bolton, who served as National Security Adviser, was fired in 2019 after disagreements over foreign policy, including Afghanistan and North Korea. His 2020 book detailed chaotic decision-making in the White House, leading to legal battles over classified information. Since then, Bolton has been outspoken against Trump, calling him unfit for office and warning of authoritarian tendencies.
FBI Director Kash Patel, appointed by Trump in January 2025, has been accused of pursuing vendettas against the president’s critics. Patel, a former Trump aide known for his loyalty, previously compiled “enemies lists” and has overseen actions like revoking security clearances for 48 ex-officials in January 2025 and canceling Bolton’s protection detail in March 2025. This raid is seen as the latest in a series, including 74 federal lawsuits against Trump critics since his inauguration.
President Trump commented on the raid during a briefing, slamming Bolton as “unpatriotic” and a “warmonger.” “He’s not a smart guy… and he could be a very unpatriotic guy. We’re going to find out,” Trump said, adding that Bolton “wants to always kill people” and was responsible for “ridiculous bombings in the Middle East.” Trump hinted at his involvement, stating, “I could know about it. I could be the one starting it… I’m actually the chief law enforcement officer.” These remarks have fueled claims of abuse of power, with critics like former Congressman Adam Kinzinger calling it “pure intimidation.”
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