A former senior CIA official named David Rush is now in federal custody after authorities discovered more than 300 gold bars valued at over $40 million, approximately $2 million in cash, and about 35 luxury watches—many of which are Rolex models—at his Virginia home. Federal filings indicate Rush claimed the gold was for work-related expenses between November and March.

Rush, who held top secret-level security clearance, was arrested last week and charged with criminal theft of public money in the Eastern District of Virginia. An FBI affidavit states he requested and received foreign currency and tens of millions of dollars in gold bars during the specified period. Agents executed a search of his residence on May 18, recovering the substantial assets detailed above.

The investigation also reveals alleged fraud extending beyond the theft charge. Court records indicate Rush fabricated educational credentials from Clemson University and Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute, misrepresented his military and aviation background—including claims linked to the U.S. Naval Test Pilot School—and falsely asserted he earned approximately 744 hours of military leave after a 2015 Navy Reserve discharge. Prosecutors allege this misconduct enabled him to secure access to tens of millions in government funds.

Federal officials note that Rush’s actions involved knowingly converting government property for personal use, with the FBI working alongside the CIA and Department of Justice on the case. His attorney has declined public comment. The affidavit describes Rush as a former senior executive service employee with top secret clearance who used falsified credentials to gain sensitive access within U.S. intelligence operations before allegedly diverting substantial resources.