DOJ Announces Indictment of Former FAA Contractor for Acting as Agent of Iranian Government

Further details regarding Rahmati’s espionage activities include his communications with Iranian intelligence officers.Photo byAkbar NemationUnsplash

The U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ) announced today that Abouzar Rahmati, 42, a naturalized U.S. citizen and former contractor for the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), has been indicted on charges of acting as an agent of the Iranian government without notifying the U.S. Attorney General, as required by federal law.

Rahmati, a resident of Great Falls, Virginia, allegedly conspired with Iranian government officials and intelligence operatives to infiltrate U.S. government agencies and share sensitive information.

The indictment, filed in the District of Columbia, outlines Rahmati’s actions from December 2017 through June 2024.

According to court documents, Rahmati secretly met with Iranian intelligence officers, secured employment with an FAA contractor to gain access to non-public information, and transferred sensitive materials related to the FAA and the U.S. solar energy industry to Iranian government officials.

Rahmati’s employment allowed him access to sensitive FAA documents, which he allegedly transported to Iran, breaching national security.

Assistant Attorney General Matthew G. Olsen of the DOJ’s National Security Division stated, "The defendant conspired with Iranian officials to access sensitive U.S. government materials and share them with Iran, a known adversary. The Justice Department will bring individuals who threaten U.S. national security to justice."

FBI Executive Assistant Director Robert Wells added, "We will not tolerate individuals who betray their country by sharing sensitive information with foreign powers."

Rahmati made his initial court appearance earlier today in Washington, D.C., where he faces multiple charges of espionage and acting as a foreign agent. If convicted, Rahmati could face serious federal penalties.

His case will continue in the District of Columbia courts, according to the DOJ.