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William Colton MillayAn American soldier convicted of espionage.
Country:
 USA |
Content:
- American Soldier Convicted of Espionage
- Espionage Trial
- Guilty Plea and Sentencing
- Prosecutorial Recommendation
- Life in Ruins
- Secret Information
- Imprisonment and Potential Sentence
American Soldier Convicted of Espionage
Courtroom TestimonyWilliam Colton Milley took the stand as the final witness during his sentencing hearing at Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson in Anchorage. Milley admitted that his actions had destroyed his own life and severely damaged his family.
Espionage Trial
A jury in Anchorage, Alaska, considered the case against the soldier who pleaded guilty to attempted espionage. William Colton Milley of Owensboro, Kentucky, was accused of selling military secrets for $3,000 to a Russian spy who turned out to be an undercover FBI agent.
Guilty Plea and Sentencing
Milley pleaded guilty last month to attempted espionage, solicitation to commit espionage, and disclosure of national defense information. A jury of eight service members—all men—heard his case Monday. The maximum penalty in the case is life in prison without the possibility of parole.
Prosecutorial Recommendation
Military prosecutors recommended that the jury sentence Milley to 25 years. Milley's civilian attorney contested the prosecution's recommendation, arguing for an 8-year sentence.
Life in Ruins
Milley acknowledged that his actions had destroyed his own life and severely damaged his family. The eight-member jury now faces the decision of how many years Milley will spend in prison.
Secret Information
The classified information that Milley offered to share with the supposed Russian spy included details on how to defeat American devices used to detonate roadside bombs. In exchange for the information, prosecutors said, Milley received $3,000 and a prepaid disposable cell phone.
Imprisonment and Potential Sentence
Milley has been in custody since October 28, 2011, and faces a possible life sentence.
