More than a dozen military members have been “disciplined” in connection to Jack Teixeira’s classified intelligence leaks. According to the Air Force inspector general’s inquiry, released to the public on Dec. 11, the colonel in charge of Teixeira’s unit was also “relieved from his position” following the investigation.
The Air Force report did not point to other military officers colluding with Teixeira, and no one appears to have been aware that he was posting the sensitive information online. Fifteen individuals, however, were found to have known of “suspicious activity” without ever informing higher-ups.
Teixeira was indicted in June, after being accused of releasing U.S. military secrets on the social media app Discord. The secrets included classified information on U.S. espionage activities against Russia, as well as Ukrainian military plans and strategies.
Teixeira was able to access the information with his top-secret security clearance. The leaks have been called the largest U.S. national security breach in at least a decade.
“Every Airman and Guardian is entrusted with the solemn duty to safeguard our nation’s classified defense information. When there is a breach of that sacred trust, for any reason, we will act in accordance with our laws and policies to hold responsible individuals accountable,” said Secretary of the Air Force Frank Kendall. “Our national security demands leaders at every level protect critical assets, ensuring they do not fall into the hands of those who would do the United States or our allies and partners harm.”
The inspector general’s office determined that at least three of Teixeira’s supervisors each “failed to take proper action in at least four separate security incidents” involving Teixeira. The report also found an overall lack of proper supervision during overnight shifts, which was when Teixeira normally worked.
Teixeira pleaded not guilty to all charges and is currently awaiting trial.
