Honolulu resident Asia Janay Lavarello, 32, is headed to federal prison after admitting to a reckless disregard for national security. Lavarello, a Department of Defense employee, was sentenced to three months incarceration and slapped with a $5,500 fine for stealing and improperly storing classified documents. The case, which unfolded over the past year, highlights a disturbing pattern of carelessness within the DoD, and the feds are sending a message: mishandle state secrets, and you *will* pay the price.
The scheme began while Lavarello was temporarily assigned to the U.S. Embassy in Manila, Philippines. As an Executive Assistant at U.S. Indo-Pacific Command in Hawaii, she had access to sensitive information. But instead of securing those materials, Lavarello brazenly removed classified documents – some marked SECRET – from the embassy and took them back to her hotel room. It wasn’t a covert operation; she hosted a dinner party, and a co-worker stumbled upon the improperly secured files. A careless mistake, or a sign of something more insidious? Investigators are still digging.
The discovery triggered an immediate investigation by the FBI and the Naval Criminal Investigative Service (NCIS). A search warrant executed at Lavarello’s workplace in Hawaii revealed even more damning evidence: a notebook filled with unauthorized copies of classified information. Lavarello not only took the documents but failed to follow established protocols for their transport and storage. She attempted to cover her tracks, making false statements to investigators, further compounding her offenses.
Federal prosecutors presented evidence showing Lavarello knowingly removed classified writings and notes pertaining to both national defense and foreign relations. The court documents detailed the extent of her unauthorized access and the blatant disregard for security protocols. She pleaded guilty in July 2021, acknowledging her wrongdoing. The feds clearly weren’t buying the excuse of simple negligence; the charges indicated a deliberate act of mishandling sensitive materials.
“Protecting classified information is paramount to our national security,” stated a representative from the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Hawaii. “Ms. Lavarello’s actions put sensitive information at risk and undermined public trust. This sentence reflects the seriousness of her offense.” NCIS Special Agents echoed that sentiment, emphasizing their commitment to investigating and prosecuting those who compromise national security. The FBI also confirmed their continued vigilance in safeguarding classified information.
Lavarello’s assignment in the Philippines was immediately terminated following the initial discovery. Now, she’ll have three months to reflect on her actions behind bars. While the feds hope this case serves as a deterrent, sources within the investigative team suggest they are reviewing similar cases involving DoD personnel and potential security lapses. Grimy Times will continue to follow this story and expose any further breaches of national security.
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Key Facts
- Category: White Collar Crime
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