US national charged for providing defence info to China

Bryan Underwood, 31, was arrested in Los Angeles last week, the Department of Justice said.

According to court documents, from about March to August 5, Underwood knowingly and unlawfully attempted to communicate photographs and other information relating to the national defence to representatives of China, with the intent and reason to believe that these materials would be used to the injury of the US and to the advantage of a foreign nation.

"Our national security depends upon our ability to keep our most sensitive information confidential. Bryan Underwood is charged with trying to pass American secrets to China and then lying to cover up his betrayal," said US Attorney Ronald Machen.

The indictment further alleges that on August 5, Underwood made a false statement when he stated to an FBI representative that he was intending to assist it when he wrote a letter stating his "interest in initiating a business arrangement" with China.

Underwood also made a false statement, according to the indictment, when he stated to an FBI representative that he was intending to assist the investigation agency when he took certain photographs of his place of work.

Finally, the indictment alleges that Underwood failed to appear in court on September 21, 2011 in accordance with the conditions of his release, after his initial arrest on August 31