Ex-MI5 Employee on Trial for Leaking Secrets and Claims of Abuse

Juan Joseph, 43, a former MI5 employee, is currently on trial at the Traditional Bailey accused of breaching the Official Secrets Act and the National Security Act by repeatedly disclosing information to a foreign state. The case, which began on March 12, 2026, has revealed disturbing claims made by Joseph following the termination of his employment with the security service.

Allegations of Information Leaks and Travel to Latvia

According to prosecutors, Joseph allegedly began leaking information in 2024 after a private prosecution he attempted to bring for an alleged assault in 2019 was rejected. He reportedly copied an email linked to a foreign state when applying for a judicial review by the High Court Sky News. On December 8, 2024, Joseph traveled to Riga, Latvia, and allegedly sent emails requesting a meeting at a foreign embassy Sky News.

Mental Health Concerns and Grievances

The court has heard evidence regarding Joseph’s mental health decline after his contract was terminated in October 2020. Prior to his termination, he held the highest level of vetting clearance during his 11 years at MI5, granting him access to classified information Standard. Colleagues described him as displaying “mental fragility, extreme anxiety and paranoia” and he was briefly hospitalized at St Thomas’s Hospital in London Standard.

Joseph also filed a series of grievances against MI5, including allegations of racial discrimination, which were investigated and dismissed Standard. In 2021, he made further, unsubstantiated claims of rape, child abuse, torture, abduction, attempted assassination, and conspiracy to murder Standard.

Claims of Hypodermic Needle Attack

Adding another layer to the case, Joseph told a Harley Street cardiologist that he was attacked with a hypodermic needle containing an “unknown substance” some years ago LBC. He reported suffering chronic chest pains as a result. The cardiologist documented the incident, noting potential inflammation and myopericarditis, but clarified that the conclusions were based solely on Joseph’s account and no physical examination or specific tests were conducted LBC.

Arrest and Charges

Joseph was arrested on January 30, 2025, at an Ibis Hotel, where he allegedly claimed to be an armed MI5 officer and was found in possession of a lock knife Sky News. A search of his home revealed a homemade card identifying him as an MI5 officer. He has denied four charges under the Official Secrets Act and National Security Act, as well as the charge of possessing a blade Sky News.

Joseph has chosen not to testify in his defense, and the trial continues with portions being held behind closed doors due to national security concerns Sky News.