Federal Agents Seize Phones and Laptops of Washington Post Reporter in Classified Leaks Probe

Wednesday morning, federal agents executed a search warrant at the Virginia home of Washington Post reporter Hannah Natanson. The operation was part of an investigation into Maryland government contractor Aurelio Perez-Lugones, who allegedly illegally retained classified information.

Natanson, known as the paper’s “federal government whisperer” for her extensive network of sources within federal agencies, was home during the search. According to the FBI affidavit and a search warrant, investigators informed Natanson she was not the target but rather that the probe focused on Perez-Lugones.

Federal authorities allege that Perez-Lugones accessed classified intelligence materials using a top-secret system, took handwritten notes, and removed them from secure facilities. Prosecutors also claim he improperly captured screenshots of sensitive information related to a foreign country. During the search, agents seized Natanson’s phone, two laptops — one personal and one issued by the Washington Post — and a Garmin watch. Attorney General Pam Bondi confirmed the search was conducted at the request of the Department of Defense and stated that Natanson had reported on classified leaks from a Pentagon contractor.

“The leaker is currently behind bars,” Bondi said. “The Trump Administration will not tolerate illegal leaks of classified information that, when reported, pose a grave risk to our Nation’s national security and the brave men and women who are serving our country.”

Perez-Lugones was charged after agents searched his home and vehicle in Laurel, Maryland where they allegedly found documents related to national defense. The search follows Bondi’s April decision to rescind a Biden-era policy that restricted investigators from accessing reporters’ records while probing leaks.