Federal investigators have discovered documents labeled “secret” and “confidential” in John Bolton’s Washington, D.C. office, according to newly unsealed court filings. The findings are part of a Justice Department investigation into whether Bolton mishandled classified national defense information during or after his time in government service.

The FBI conducted a court-authorized search of Bolton’s office on August 22, seizing classified materials such as strategic communications plans, travel memos, documents related to weapons of mass destruction, and records concerning the U.S. mission to the United Nations. Electronic devices were also taken, though their contents remain undisclosed.

The investigation focuses on potential violations of the Espionage Act, particularly the unauthorized retention or handling of classified defense information. While the exact number of classified files was not specified, multiple folders bore official classification markings. “Secret” and “confidential” indicate levels of sensitivity within the U.S. classification system.

A separate search of Bolton’s Maryland home yielded no classified material, but electronic devices were seized. Investigators also expressed concern that Bolton’s communications—some possibly from his AOL email account—may have been compromised by foreign intelligence services.

This case rekindles scrutiny over Bolton’s controversial 2020 memoir, The Room Where It Happened, which the Trump administration unsuccessfully tried to block for allegedly containing classified material. Though that civil case was dropped in 2021, the new investigation could bring legal consequences.

Bolton’s attorney maintains that all documents underwent proper pre-publication review and originated from his earlier government service, not from his tenure under President Trump.