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Ex-CIA official found with gold bars admits to sprawling scheme, agrees to forfeit $194 million

CBS News • October 6, 2026 • general

Key Points:

Former CIA official David Rush pleaded guilty to wire fraud, admitting he fabricated classified programs to divert nearly $200 million in government funds for personal use, including purchasing Florida mansions and gold bars.
Rush agreed to forfeit at least $194 million in assets, including 298 gold bars, luxury cars, watches, and four Florida homes, and faces up to 20 years in prison.
Prosecutors revealed Rush created fake classified authorities to funnel $145 million through a front company to buy real estate and separately justified acquiring gold bars through another fabricated sensitive government activity.
The FBI found $2 million in cash, luxury watches, and the gold bars during a May search of Rush's home, and about $38.6 million remained in the holding company's account.
Authorities described Rush as a "master manipulator" who lied about his background and exploited his government access, with a judge ruling him a severe flight risk and ordering him to remain in custody.

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