The US Justice Department reported that Jinchao Wei, a 25-year-old sailor stationed on the USS Essex, was convicted for espionage, having betrayed military trust by selling classified information to a Chinese agent. Wei, who also goes by Patrick Wei, was arrested in August 2023 as he arrived for duty. He had been approached by a Chinese intelligence officer in early 2022 via social media, initially posing as a naval enthusiast. Over 18 months, Wei reportedly received more than $12,000 for sharing sensitive details about Navy ships, including images and operational statuses.
Wei's activities not only compromised Navy operations but also posed threats to national security, according to US Attorney Adam Gordon. During his trial, prosecutors showcased evidence from phone conversations and encrypted messages exchanged between Wei and his handler, referred to as "Big Brother Andy." Messages included discussions of Wei's awareness of the espionage, with him telling his mother he was "leaking secrets" for money—a conversation presented as a clear indicator of his understanding of the stakes involved.
As a naturalized US citizen with security clearance, Wei's access to sensitive information put his fellow sailors and the nation in jeopardy. His sentencing is scheduled for December 1, where he faces the possibility of life in prison. His case echoes the recent arrest of another sailor, Petty Officer Wenheng Zhao, who was also found guilty of espionage and sentenced to 27 months for similar activities. The Justice Department's ongoing efforts highlight the seriousness of espionage against the US Armed Forces.
Wei's activities not only compromised Navy operations but also posed threats to national security, according to US Attorney Adam Gordon. During his trial, prosecutors showcased evidence from phone conversations and encrypted messages exchanged between Wei and his handler, referred to as "Big Brother Andy." Messages included discussions of Wei's awareness of the espionage, with him telling his mother he was "leaking secrets" for money—a conversation presented as a clear indicator of his understanding of the stakes involved.
As a naturalized US citizen with security clearance, Wei's access to sensitive information put his fellow sailors and the nation in jeopardy. His sentencing is scheduled for December 1, where he faces the possibility of life in prison. His case echoes the recent arrest of another sailor, Petty Officer Wenheng Zhao, who was also found guilty of espionage and sentenced to 27 months for similar activities. The Justice Department's ongoing efforts highlight the seriousness of espionage against the US Armed Forces.
