By Kashmira Konduparty
A former Central Intelligence Agency official has been charged after federal investigators allegedly discovered more than $40 million worth of gold bars, millions in cash and dozens of luxury watches at his Virginia home, according to court documents obtained by USA TODAY.
David Rush, who previously held a senior position at the CIA, was arrested on charges related to theft of public money and fraud, federal prosecutors said. Investigators say that Rush used his access to government resources to obtain large amounts of gold bars and foreign currency under the guise of work-related expenses.
According to an FBI affidavit, Rush allegedly requested gold bars and other valuable assets between November 2025 and March for what he described as operational purposes tied to his government duties. A later internal review by the CIA reportedly uncovered discrepancies involving missing assets and prompted a broader investigation.
Federal agents who searched Rush’s home said they recovered more than 300 gold bars valued at over $40 million, approximately $2 million in cash and around 35 luxury watches, including several Rolex watches.
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Court filings state that the CIA referred the matter to the FBI after agency officials identified potential violations involving financial transactions and government property. The Justice Department and FBI are continuing to investigate whether additional crimes were committed and whether others may have been involved.
Prosecutors also alleged that Rush fabricated parts of his professional and academic background. According to investigators, Rush falsely claimed to have attended Clemson University and Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute and also stated that he had served as a Navy pilot. Authorities said they found no evidence supporting those claims and determined he did not possess Federal Aviation Administration pilot certification.
Rush did serve in the Navy Reserves until 2015 and was honorably discharged as a lieutenant, according to court records. However, investigators alleged that he continued to receive military leave-related payments after his discharge, resulting in approximately $77,000 in improper compensation.
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Officials have not publicly detailed how the alleged scheme remained undetected for months or whether the gold bars were tied to classified CIA operations. The case has raised questions about oversight and internal accountability at one of the nation’s most secretive intelligence agencies.
In a statement, the FBI said it was working closely with the CIA and federal prosecutors as the investigation continues. The CIA declined to comment further on the allegations.