A former senior CIA official has been charged with stealing over 300 gold bars worth more than $40 million from the federal government, intensifying scrutiny over U.S. gold tracking and verification. David Rush, a former CIA employee with top-secret clearance, was arrested on May 19 after an FBI affidavit revealed he requested and received gold bars and foreign currency for work expenses between November and March. Agents seized over 300 gold bars, $2 million in cash, and 35 luxury watches from his home. The case has drawn political attention, with President Donald Trump renewing calls for a physical inspection of Fort Knox, which has not undergone an independent public audit since 1974. Trump has questioned the gold reserves' integrity since early 2025. Fort Knox holds about 147 million ounces of gold (59% of U.S. reserves), valued at roughly $700 billion. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent dismissed concerns, stating all gold is present and audited internally annually, and invited Congress members to verify. No formal inspection has been scheduled.

Key facts

• Former CIA executive David Rush charged with stealing over 300 gold bars worth $40M.
• FBI seized gold bars, $2M cash, and 35 luxury watches from Rush's home.
• Trump renews push for physical audit of Fort Knox, unaudited since 1974.
• Fort Knox holds 147 million ounces of gold, about 59% of US reserves.
• Treasury Secretary says gold is present, invites Congress to verify.