Former security guard at US Embassy overseas is convicted of spying for Russia and Iran
Share this @internewscast.com

A former guard employed at the United States Embassy in Norway has been found guilty of espionage activities benefiting Russia and Iran, according to reports.

The 28-year-old Norwegian national, whose name remains undisclosed, received a sentence of three years and seven months on Wednesday, as reported by The Associated Press.

At the time of his arrest last November, a Norwegian police representative informed Reuters that the man was employed at the U.S. Embassy in Oslo, the capital of Norway.

Fox News Digital reached out to the State Department for comments on Thursday, but there was no immediate response.

DENMARK CALLS IN US AMBASSADOR OVER ALLEGED SECRET OPERATIONS IN GREENLAND

Exterior of U.S. Embassy in Norway building

The main entryway of the U.S. Embassy in Norway is shown. Earlier this week, a former security official there was handed a sentence for spying for Russia and Iran, according to reports. (U.S. Embassy in Norway)

Prosecutors alleged that the man handed over details about the embassy’s diplomats, its floor plans and security routines, among other information, Norwegian state broadcaster NRK reported. The broadcaster added that American ties to Israel and the war in Gaza prompted the man to contact Russia and Iran. 

The suspect acknowledged the indictment’s facts but denied any criminal guilt, according to the AP.

The man’s defense attorneys said in a statement Thursday that the verdict raises questions about what is considered espionage under Norwegian law. 

“He lied about having security clearance to agents from other countries and exaggerated his own role,” attorney Inger Zadig of Elden Law Firm told the AP. “He had roughly the same level of access as a janitor at the embassy. The information he shared was worthless and neither separately nor collectively capable of harming individuals or the security interests of any state.” 

STATE DEPARTMENT AWARE OF REPORTS AFTER AMERICAN TOURISTS ATTACKED, 1 KILLED IN POPULAR SEASIDE DESTINATION 

Norway and United States flags on table

Norwegian and American flags are seen on a table at the Pentagon.  (Alex Brandon/AP/File)

The defendant was found guilty of five espionage-related charges and was acquitted of gross corruption. His defense attorneys are weighing whether to appeal the verdict. 

Consular entrance at U.S. Embassy in Norway

The 28-year-old man who was convicted of espionage was working as a security guard at the U.S. Embassy in Norway last November, a police official told Reuters. (U.S. Embassy in Norway)

At the time of his arrest last November, the man had been studying for a bachelor’s degree in security and preparedness at Norway’s Arctic University, UiT. 

Share this @internewscast.com
You May Also Like
Senate talks continue over ending shutdown as Democrats weigh offer

Senate Negotiations Intensify as Democrats Consider Proposal to Resolve Government Shutdown

After departing the Senate floor, Thune indicated that the chamber might continue…
Nancy Pelosi retires: California leaders, politicians express gratitude for former speaker's historic career

California Politicians Celebrate Nancy Pelosi’s Trailblazing Career as She Announces Retirement

In a significant political development, former House Speaker Nancy Pelosi revealed on…
Parents of Kayla Mueller ask President Trump to bring daughter's remains home from Syria in letter

Kayla Mueller’s Parents Urge President Trump to Repatriate Her Remains from Syria

EXCLUSIVE: In a heartfelt plea, Carl and Marsha Mueller, the parents of…
ICE says it took down group linked to violent home invasions in Texas; video shows victim chased, attacked

ICE Dismantles Texas Home Invasion Ring: Shocking Video Reveals Terrifying Attacks

EXCLUSIVE FROM FOX: Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) has announced the apprehension…
Mexican President Sheinbaum to press charges after man gropes her on walk

Mexican President Sheinbaum Pursues Legal Action Following Public Groping Incident

In a bold move for women’s safety, Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum has…
Crews are working to fix Alaska Native villages devastated by flooding. But will residents return?

Alaska Native Villages Face Uncertain Future as Crews Tackle Flood Damage: Will Residents Rebuild?

KWIGILLINGOK, Alaska (AP) — As the last evacuees left the village of…
Walking for Hope: Jacksonville unites to end Alzheimer’s this Sunday

Jacksonville Rallies Together: Join the ‘Walk for Hope’ to Combat Alzheimer’s This Sunday

Alzheimer’s disease affects millions globally. On Sunday, November 9, Jacksonville will come…
Florida AG files lawsuit against Planned Parenthood, claims abortion drugs are 'misrepresented'

Florida Attorney General Sues Planned Parenthood Over Alleged Misrepresentation of Abortion Medications

JACKSONVILLE, Fla. — On Thursday, Florida Attorney General James Uthmeier declared legal…
Left-wing New Hampshire professor smeared Charlie Kirk for 'white supremacy' after assassination

New Hampshire Professor Faces Backlash for Accusing Charlie Kirk of ‘White Supremacy’ Amid Controversial Remarks

In the wake of the shocking assassination of Charlie Kirk, founder of…
Rockefeller Christmas tree is harvested from upstate New York and begins trek to Manhattan

Iconic Rockefeller Christmas Tree Begins Journey from Upstate New York to Illuminate Manhattan

The majestic Christmas tree destined to illuminate Rockefeller Center this festive season…
ICE officer seriously injured after illegal immigrant assault, using metal coffee cup

ICE Officer Severely Injured in Violent Assault by Undocumented Immigrant Using Metal Coffee Cup

An officer from U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) was gravely injured…
UPS names 3 pilots killed in Louisville cargo plane crash that left at least 12 people dead

Tragic Louisville Cargo Crash: UPS Honors Fallen Pilots Among 12 Victims

On Thursday, UPS revealed the identities of the flight crew members who…