FBI Announces Reward to Locate Former Air Force Specialist
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WASHINGTON — The FBI this week announced a $200,000 reward for information leading to the capture and prosecution of Monica Elfriede Witt, a former U.S. Air Force counterintelligence specialist who defected to Iran in 2013 and was indicted by a federal grand jury in February 2019 on espionage charges for allegedly transmitting national defense information to the Tehran government.
WASHINGTON — The FBI this week announced a $200,000 reward for information leading to the capture and prosecution of Monica Elfriede Witt, a former U.S. Air Force counterintelligence specialist who defected to Iran in 2013 and was indicted by a federal grand jury in February 2019 on espionage charges for allegedly transmitting national defense information to the Tehran government.
Officials, including Daniel Wierzbicki of the FBI's Washington Field Office, said Wednesday the bureau believes someone knows Witt's whereabouts and urged public tips; the reward accompanies existing 2019 charges. It was not immediately clear why the FBI highlighted the case now, and Witt remains at large as U.S.-Iran tensions have intensified this year.
More context
Timeline
- 1. 2003–2008: Witt assigned to Middle East counterintelligence duties.
- 2. 2013: Reported defection of Monica Witt to Iran.
- 3. February 2019: Federal grand jury indictment on espionage charges issued.
- 4. This week (May 2026): FBI announces $200,000 reward for information leading to Witt's capture and prosecution.
- 5. Following announcement: FBI public statement urges anyone with knowledge to come forward; Witt remains at large.
Why it matters
This case highlights the ongoing issue of national security. It's a reminder that the safety of our country often depends on the loyalty and integrity of those in sensitive positions. If you know something about Witt's location, your tip could make a difference.
Sources
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