ALEXANDRIA, Va.—An American journalist has pleaded guilty to acting as a Chinese agent and supplying intelligence to Beijing.
Thomas Weir Pauken II, 51, took tasks for years from Chinese intelligence officers, receiving at least $100,000 from one officer identified as “Cathy,” according to the plea agreement.
His sentencing is scheduled on Sept. 1, which entails up to 10 years in prison along with three years of supervised release and a maximum fine of $250,000.
Appearing in a forest green inmate uniform on June 4, Pauken said he was not fully aware of the U.S. law prohibiting the actions.
He promised not to knowingly contact any foreign intelligence agents or officials or seek or accept benefits from such individuals. Violation of that promise would lead to “significant ramifications,” Judge Leonie Brinkema said….