Judge Keeps Suspected Spy Behind Bars
- Share via
ALEXANDRIA, Va. — Citing “overwhelming” evidence indicating that Robert C. Kim gave classified documents to South Korea, a federal judge ordered the former government computer analyst held without bond Wednesday.
U.S. District Judge Leonie M. Brinkema’s action reversed a magistrate’s decision that would have allowed Kim to go free while awaiting trial on charges that he gave South Korean officials documents obtained while he worked as a civilian for naval intelligence.
“At this point the evidence appears to be overwhelming,” Brinkema said after a hearing.
She said that when South Korean-born Kim took his oath of U.S. citizenship, “that put an obligation on Mr. Kim’s part that this evidence suggests he has broken.”
Because Kim is now unemployed and deeply in debt, Brinkema said, he poses a threat to flee the country. She noted that he has family in and other close ties to South Korea.
Sign up for Essential California
The most important California stories and recommendations in your inbox every morning.
You may occasionally receive promotional content from the Los Angeles Times.
