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LONDON DAILY ARCHIVE

Secret material case against forces member dropped

The case against Thomas Newsome, a 37-year-old member of the armed forces accused of breaching the Official Secrets Act, has been dropped. The decision was made considering a report on Mr. Newsome's mental health and the duration of his custody.

11 November 2023 · 09:10 UTC

He had been charged with sharing "highly sensitive military information" and was set to face trial in 2024 but has now been formally cleared of any wrongdoing.

At the latest hearing at the Old Bailey, the prosecution offered no evidence against Newsome. Prosecutor Tom Little KC mentioned that Newsome's mental health condition, which was linked to his prosecution, played a role in the decision to drop the case. The alleged offence was said to arise from grievances with his employer.

Previously, Newsome was accused of sharing a 10-page document upon returning from an overseas deployment and making a "damaging disclosure of information relating to defense" to two senior officers and a civilian.

He was also alleged to have possessed a USB stick containing highly sensitive material. However, with the case discontinued, Newsome no longer faces trial. He had pleaded not guilty before the prosecution decided not to pursue the case.