CIA Officer Arrested with $40 Million in Gold Bars

David Rush, a veteran CIA officer, was arrested last week after authorities discovered over $40 million in gold bars in his home. The 49-year-old had served 17 years in the agency’s Directorate of Science and Technology and held a senior rank before his arrest on May 18, as reported by current and former officials.

Rush once interacted with Stephen A. Feinberg, now the deputy secretary of defense. Although their direct collaboration seems limited, they first came into contact when Rush was involved with the President’s Intelligence Advisory Board during President Trump’s first term. Feinberg, who founded Cerberus Capital Management, chaired the board at that time. This board provides advice to the White House and intelligence agencies on matters of intelligence collection.

Officials have indicated that Rush and Feinberg were not closely connected. Despite this, Feinberg has maintained an interest in the technology developed by the CIA, especially its Directorate of Science and Technology. He paid close attention to its advancements both while on the advisory board and after assuming the second-highest position at the Pentagon.

The mystery surrounding the CIA’s issuance of the gold bars to Rush persists. Former officials suggest Rush likely had access to covert programs that provided the substantial amount of money.

Individuals briefed on the investigation have confirmed that neither Feinberg nor the Pentagon were involved with the actions that led to Rush acquiring the gold bars. Despite questions, the Pentagon did not provide a comment, and the CIA also declined to respond. Initially reported by NBC News, Rush’s connection to Feinberg continues to draw attention.

Rush remains in custody, facing charges of stealing public money by falsifying time sheets. Court documents reveal accusations of inflating his academic qualifications and lying about his job history. Though legal action has been taken, many questions remain unanswered.

From November to March, Rush reportedly requested and received millions in gold bars and foreign currency for “work-related expenses.” A subsequent CIA investigation could not locate the gold and currency. This prompted an FBI search of Rush’s residence, where they found 303 gold bars, each weighing approximately 2.2 pounds.

Julian E. Barnes and Mark Mazzetti, both experienced in reporting on national security and intelligence, contributed to this story.