Former US Navy Petty Officer Sentenced to 18 Years in Military Prison for Espionage Attempt
A former US Navy Petty Officer, Bryce Pedicini, was recently sentenced to 18 years in a military prison for attempting to engage in espionage activities. The verdict came after a week-long trial conducted solely by a military court judge, where Pedicini was found guilty of charges including attempting to engage in espionage and attempting to violate orders. The judge ultimately decided to downgrade the espionage charge to an attempted offense.
Pedicini was also demoted to the E-1 rank and dishonorably discharged from the Navy.
According to court records, in 2022, an unidentified individual posing as a “Japanese researcher” contacted Pedicini via Facebook, offering money in exchange for detailed information on US military capabilities and strategies.
The court records revealed that Pedicini’s job responsibilities spanned a wide range, from radar, fire control systems, and computer systems to the Navy’s advanced Aegis missile system.
The court documents stated that the unidentified individual successfully persuaded Pedicini to send classified materials regarding ballistic missile systems. Pedicini received some monetary compensation in return.
Pedicini joined the Navy in early 2008 and served aboard the USS McFaul and USS Curtis Wilbur destroyers. In April of last year, he was transferred to the USS Higgins stationed at the San Diego naval base. However, he has been in custody since May of last year.
The US military indicated that the information he provided was “defense-related” and “could be used to harm the United States and benefit foreign nations.” Although officials did not disclose which country he transmitted the documents to, experts speculated on San Diego’s ABC10 television station that the country was likely China.