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U.S. Intelligence Analyst Arrested in Wikileaks Video Probe

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wraith808:
http://www.wired.com/threatlevel/2010/06/leak/?intcid=postnav

While unpopular, I know that my view is that classified information is just that- classified.  And if you release it for *whatever* reason outside of the correct procedures, you should be prosecuted.  That's the only way to ensure that intelligence remains actionable and assets that are in place for our security remain safe.  National security is not a pass to violate the rule of law, but there is a definite procedure to bring such things to prosecution- and one Specialist can't decide that information needs to be made public just because he thinks so.

40hz:
Unfortunately, starting with Richard Nixon, there has been an ever increasing tendency to equate "issues of national security" with what can more accurately and honestly be described as "incidents embarassing to the current administration."

But even as a whistle-blower, his overall behavior was way over the top. Leaking that video might have been one thing. But releasing classified diplomatic communications is another.

Either way, this kid made several very stupid moves regardless of what his motivations or intentions might have been. And every serviceperson knows the UCMJ doesn't make too many allowances for intention.    

Hope he enjoys looking at moonlight through steel bars...

(Assuming they even have windows where he's heading.)  :(


 

wraith808:
But I'm not talking about the nebulous "Issues of National Security."  It's more the classified tag.  Some things are declared issues of national security after the fact or that's just an excuse used not to comment on something.  But if something is labeled classified, that's pretty unequivocal IMO... and you signed an agreement when you took the job that says you will behave in a certain way toward that data, no matter what it is.

40hz:
^No argument there.

I've read that little pamphlet they used to give you when you got your security 'clearance.'. It was called something like "Your Duty" It had the relevant parts of the U.S. Code along with the penalties for violating it spelled out pretty clearly. Scary book.

Like the song says:

"Moonlight and bars, my friends. Moonlight and bars."   :tellme:  

Renegade:
Over the top is a nice way to understate things... 260,000 documents? YIKES! And he was bragging about it!

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