Ex-MI5 Worker Leaked Secrets & Met Embassy in Latvia, Trial Hears
Ex-MI5 IT Worker Accused of Leaking Secrets to Foreign State
A former IT contractor for the UK’s MI5 intelligence agency is on trial at the Old Bailey, accused of breaching the Official Secrets Act by leaking sensitive information to a foreign state. Juan Joseph, 42, allegedly sent emails containing classified material and travelled to Riga, Latvia, in an attempt to meet with representatives of a foreign embassy, according to court proceedings that began on March 12, 2026. The case raises significant questions about national security and the handling of sensitive information by former intelligence personnel.
The Allegations: Leaks and a Trip to Riga
Prosecutors allege that Joseph, who worked for MI5 between September 2009 and October 2020, began disclosing information in late 2024 and early 2025. These disclosures took the form of emails sent to, or copied to, entities representing one or more foreign countries. The prosecution argues that this information was “damaging to UK national interests.” Following these email communications, Joseph travelled to Riga, Latvia, and attempted to arrange a meeting with representatives of a foreign embassy there, seemingly intending to further disclose protected information.
The trial is being conducted with parts heard behind closed doors due to the sensitive nature of the information involved. Jurors have been instructed not to discuss the closed proceedings, even after the trial concludes, under threat of imprisonment – a standard procedure in cases involving national security.
A Decade of Service and Subsequent Grievances
Joseph’s employment with MI5 spanned over a decade, during which he held “developed vetting” security clearance, granting him access to information of the “highest classification.” He occasionally also worked for another organization within the UK intelligence community. However, his security clearance was revoked and his contract terminated in 2020 after he experienced mental health issues.
Following his dismissal, Joseph reportedly pursued a series of grievances against MI5, culminating in an unsuccessful attempt to initiate a private prosecution against the security service in August 2024. The alleged offenses began after his application for a judicial review of the decision to refuse his private prosecution was rejected.
The Timeline of Events
Here’s a breakdown of the key events as presented in court:
- November 19, 2024: Joseph allegedly sent an email containing sensitive information to the Administrative Court office, also copying an address linked to a foreign state.
- December 8, 2024: Joseph travelled to Riga, Latvia.
- December 15, 2024: Joseph was stopped by police upon his return to Gatwick Airport.
- January 13, 2025: Joseph allegedly sent another email containing sensitive information, again including a recipient linked to a foreign state.
- January 30, 2025: Joseph was arrested at an Ibis Hotel near his home in Sutton, South London.
What is the Official Secrets Act?
The Official Secrets Act is a series of Acts of Parliament that define and prohibit various forms of espionage. Originally enacted in 1889, it has been amended several times, most recently with the National Security Act 2023. The Act criminalizes obtaining, communicating, or retaining sensitive information without proper authorization, with penalties including imprisonment. The Act aims to protect state secrets and safeguard national security.
Confirmed vs. Unclear
It is confirmed that Joseph sent emails containing sensitive information and travelled to Riga. It is also confirmed that he was arrested and is currently on trial. However, the specific nature of the information disclosed, the identity of the foreign state(s) involved, and the full extent of Joseph’s intentions remain largely unclear due to the ongoing, partially secret nature of the trial. The extent to which Joseph’s mental health played a role in his actions is also a key point of contention.
Mental Health and State of Mind
The prosecution acknowledges that Joseph was “undoubtedly mentally unwell” during the period of the alleged offenses. The defense is expected to argue that Joseph was suffering from paranoid schizophrenia and was operating under a “terrible delusion,” believing he was a victim of wrongdoing and being silenced. Psychiatric evidence is expected to play a crucial role in determining Joseph’s state of mind at the time of the alleged offenses.
Charges and Potential Penalties
Joseph denies two charges of making a damaging disclosure relating to security or intelligence, as well as charges related to obtaining or disclosing “protected information” under the National Security Act 2023, and possession of an offensive weapon (a folding lock knife). If convicted, he could face a significant prison sentence. The case continues at the Old Bailey.