FBI Searches Washington Post Journalist’s Home in Leak Case

On January 14, the FBI searched the home of Washington Post reporter Hannah Natanson as part of an investigation into the disclosure of classified information.

Investigation into Classified Document Leak

The investigation is related to a Pentagon contractor, Aurelio Perez-Lugones, a system administrator with top-secret clearance. He is accused of illegally storing classified documents concerning Venezuela.

Authorities say Perez-Lugones had access to sensitive materials, printed documents without authorization, and kept them outside official premises.

Correspondence with the Reporter

During the investigation, law enforcement found that the contractor’s communications with the reporter contained classified materials. However, Hannah Natanson is not the target of the investigation.

Search of Hannah Natanson’s Home

FBI agents seized laptops, a mobile phone, and a smartwatch. The search was executed under a warrant and represents a rare instance of such measures being applied to a journalist.

A Washington Post spokesperson said the publication is closely monitoring the situation. It was also reported that the newspaper received a subpoena requesting information related to the Pentagon contractor.

Washington Post’s Position

Executive editor Matt Murray emphasized that neither the reporter nor the newspaper is the subject of the investigation. He expressed concern about the authorities’ actions and their potential impact on press protections.

Statements by Donald Trump

On the day of the search, Donald Trump told reporters that authorities had caught a “very bad leaker” of information about Venezuela. He added that the investigation could involve others.

Misinterpretation by Media

Several outlets mistakenly linked these remarks to a Polymarket user who had previously won over $400,000 on bets. However, iGN confirmed that Trump was referring to the Pentagon contractor, not a platform user.

Case Context

In recent years, Hannah Natanson has reported on actions by the Trump administration, including policies affecting federal employees and U.S. pressure on Venezuela.

She also contributed to articles based on official documents, including reports on U.S. diplomatic meetings.