David Rush, a former C.I.A. officer, was arrested with more than $40 million in gold bars at his residence. His connection with Stephen A. Feinberg, the deputy secretary of defense, has drawn attention. Current and past U.S. officials acknowledge that Rush and Feinberg had professional contact during the Trump administration, though they were not closely connected.
Rush, 49, had significant experience within the C.I.A.’s Directorate of Science and Technology. His arrest, dating back to May 18, surprised many in intelligence circles. Although Rush first interacted with Feinberg on the President’s Intelligence Advisory Board, their relationship does not seem deep. Feinberg chaired the board during Trump’s first term, focusing on intelligence and technology.
Officials observed that Mr. Feinberg, who founded Cerberus Capital Management, took an interest in the C.I.A.’s tech advancements. The board, under his leadership, provided intelligence-related advisories to the White House and agencies.
The discovery of gold bars in Rush’s home raises questions. His activities and how he acquired the gold remain unclear. Former officials speculate Rush might have been part of a covert venture to access substantial funds. Investigations suggest no Pentagon involvement in the matter concerning the gold bars.
The Pentagon has not commented on the situation. Similarly, the C.I.A. remained silent. NBC News first reported the ties between Rush and Feinberg.
Rush faces charges linked to fraudulent time sheets, resulting in his incarceration. He is accused of falsifying academic achievements and misrepresenting his work record, according to court documents. The charges raise more questions than they answer.
Court documents reveal that from November to March, Rush requested large sums of gold bars and foreign currency, allegedly for job-related expenses. Subsequent C.I.A. investigations could not trace these assets. After being alerted, the F.B.I. found 303 gold bars, each weighing approximately 2.2 pounds, in Rush’s home.
Julian E. Barnes and Mark Mazzetti, experienced reporters covering intelligence and national security, have reported on this unfolding story.