Former US company official accused of selling secret data to Russia

A former executive at a US government contracting company allegedly sold commercial secret data to Russia for $1.3 million.

According to the investigation, former contractor executive Peter Williams stole eight trade secrets from two unidentified firms between April 2022 and June 2025 and attempted to sell them to a Russian buyer, Caliber.Az reports, citing Reuters.

This could have given Russia access to hacking technologies used by the US and other intelligence agencies, potentially increasing the risk of attacks on federal systems and helping adversaries strengthen their cyber defences.

According to British company records, Williams served as a director at L3Harris Trenchant from October 2024 until his resignation in August 2025. The firm develops hacking tools for national security purposes and collaborates with the US government.

Prosecutors allege that Williams earned $1.3 million from the sale of classified data and are seeking to confiscate his Washington home, luxury watches, and jewellery.

L3Harris Trenchant stated that it has launched an internal investigation into the possible data breach.

Williams, identified as an Australian citizen and US resident, could not be located.

A court hearing is scheduled for October 29 to review a potential plea agreement.

By Jeyhun Aghazada