US Ex-Executive Peter Williams Accused of Selling Trade Secrets to Russia

US prosecutors have accused a former executive of a major government contractor of selling trade secrets to Russia in exchange for $1.3 million, luxury items, and property. According to court filings, Peter Williams, a former general manager of L3Harris Trenchant, allegedly stole eight trade secrets from two unnamed companies between April 2022 and June 2025, intending to sell them to a Russian buyer.

The trade secrets in question reportedly involved cyber intelligence tools used by the US government and allied agencies. The case, filed in the US District Court in Washington on October 14, paints a troubling picture of how sensitive technology designed to protect national security may have fallen into foreign hands. Prosecutors allege that Williams not only profited financially but also pursued personal luxury, including a house, watches, and jewelry, all bought with the proceeds of the illegal sale.

Williams’ professional background adds another layer of concern. Records show he worked at L3Harris Trenchant, a subsidiary of the defense contractor L3Harris, from October 2024 until his resignation in August 2025. The company, known for developing hacking tools that assist intelligence operations, has contracts with several US government agencies. While L3Harris declined to comment, industry insiders say the trade secrets Williams allegedly leaked could give Russia valuable insight into US cyber defense mechanisms.

The trade secrets theft has sparked deep concerns among cybersecurity experts. If Russia gains knowledge of hacking tools or operational strategies used by US intelligence, it could undermine federal defense systems and enable foreign entities to strengthen their counter-cyber measures. A source familiar with the matter confirmed that the Peter Williams named in British business records is indeed the same individual cited in the US court documents.

Prosecutors are now seeking the forfeiture of Williams’ Washington, DC property and his luxury possessions. Reports from TechCrunch indicate that L3Harris Trenchant has already launched an internal investigation into a potential leak of hacking tools.

As of now, Williams remains unreachable. Court records identify him as an Australian citizen and a US resident. His attorneys have not responded to media requests for comment. An arraignment and plea hearing are scheduled for October 29, where further details are expected to emerge.

This case highlights growing fears about insider threats in the defense technology sector. The alleged sale of trade secrets to Russia underscores the vulnerabilities within high-security environments and the rising stakes in global cyber espionage. As US authorities tighten security measures, the world watches closely to see how this case will unfold — and what it means for the future of digital intelligence and international trust.