The FBI has issued a $200,000 reward for information leading to the arrest of Monica Witt, a former Air Force intelligence specialist accused of spying for Iran. The agency continues its efforts to locate Witt, who is believed to have defected to Iran in 2013.
Background on Monica Witt
Monica Witt previously served as a counterintelligence officer for the Air Force Office of Special Investigations. Her assignments included counterintelligence roles in the Middle East during 2003 and 2008.
Allegations of Spying for Iran
- In 2019, Assistant Attorney General John Demers alleged that Witt was targeted and recruited by Iranian entities.
- Prosecutors claim that after defecting, Witt provided Iran with sensitive information, including the existence of a "highly classified intelligence collection program" and the identity of a U.S. intelligence officer, potentially endangering the life of the latter.
- The indictment further alleged that between approximately January 2012 and May 2015, Witt conspired with Iranians, both inside and outside the U.S., to furnish documents and information concerning U.S. national defense. These actions were allegedly intended to benefit Iran and harm the United States.
FBI Appeal and Legal Status
- A statement from the FBI Washington Field Office's Counterintelligence and Cyber Division indicated the agency's ongoing interest in Witt's whereabouts, noting that they believe she "likely continues to support (Iran’s) nefarious activities."
- FBI Special Agent Daniel Wierzbicki urged the public to provide information to help apprehend Witt and bring her to justice.
- The indictment also charged four Iranian nationals with conspiracy, attempted computer intrusion, and aggravated identity theft.
- The indictment noted that Iranian government officials allegedly provided Witt with "goods and services, including housing and computer equipment," to support her work for them. The article does not specify whether Witt currently has legal representation in the U.S.