A former CIA agent accused of hoarding $40 million in gold bars and other valuables at his Virginia residence is close to reaching a plea agreement with federal prosecutors. David Rush, 49, and the Justice Department have made significant progress toward a "plea agreement in principle," according to a joint motion filed Friday.
Rush was arrested in late May after federal agents discovered 303 U.S. government-owned gold bars, valued at $40 million, along with $2 million in cash and 35 luxury watches at his Ashburn home.
Authorities have held Rush since his arrest, deeming him a flight risk. He has been formally charged with one count of theft of public funds. Prosecutors allege he fraudulently claimed tens of thousands of dollars in compensation for military leave after his discharge from the U.S. Navy in 2015. The case currently rests on a criminal complaint, and has not yet been presented to a federal grand jury.
Both Rush's legal team and the prosecution are requesting a 21-day extension from the court to finalize a "pre-indictment resolution." Details of the potential plea agreement have not been disclosed.
Rush worked within the CIA's Directorate of Science and Technology unit. An FBI affidavit indicates that Rush requested the stockpile of gold bars and currency for "work-related expenses" planned between November 2025 and March 2026. During his tenure, Rush allegedly misrepresented his qualifications, including claiming to be a doctor and pilot, and improperly took military leave despite being discharged from the Navy in 2015. His lawyer has declined to comment on the case.