Monica Alfredi Witt She made headlines for years for her alleged involvement in one of the US military’s most shocking espionage cases. The former Air Force counterintelligence specialist has been accused of defecting to Iran and sharing classified information with the Iranian government.
He added: “The FBI has not forgotten and believes that during this critical moment in Iran’s history, there is someone who knows something about her whereabouts.” Daniel WierzbickiThe special agent in charge of the Counterintelligence and Cyber Division of the FBI’s Washington Field Office said in a statement issued in May 2026, according to CNN. “The FBI wants to hear from you so you can help us arrest Whit and bring her to justice.”
Here’s what we know about Witt, her background, and the accusations against her.
Monica Alfred Witt served in the United States Air Force
Witt joined the US Air Force in 1997, serving until 2008. During her military career, she was a counterintelligence specialist and cryptolinguist, with a focus on Middle East operations and intelligence.
According to multiple outlets, Witt had access to sensitive information and obtained a top-secret security clearance while working with the Air Force Office of Special Investigations (AFOSI).
Monica Witt worked as a defense contractor after leaving the military
After stepping down from active duty, Witt continued to work in intelligence-related positions as a government contractor until approximately 2010. According to federal authorities, her involvement in undercover work left her with constant exposure to sensitive national defense information.
Officials claimed that the knowledge and training Witt acquired during her years of military and contract service was used to help Iran after she left the United States.
Witt was charged with espionage in 2019
In February 2019, the US Department of Justice announced espionage-related charges against Witt. Prosecutors accused her of conspiring to provide classified national defense information to the Iranian government after she allegedly defected to Iran in 2013.
The indictment alleged that Witt revealed the identities of U.S. intelligence personnel and helped Iranian cyber operatives target Americans through hacking and surveillance campaigns.
Monica Witt allegedly defected to Iran
Authorities believe Witt traveled to Iran to attend conferences related to anti-American propaganda efforts before her defection. According to investigators, Witt became increasingly involved with Iranian organizations and chose to remain in the country permanently.
The FBI alleged that Witt adopted alternate names while abroad and continued to assist Iranian intelligence efforts after her defection.
Witt remained at large for years.
The FBI offered a reward for information about her
In 2026, the FBI renewed public interest in Witt’s case by offering a reward of up to $200,000 for information leading to her arrest. Federal officials described her as a fugitive wanted for alleged espionage activities linked to Iran.
The office warned that Witt’s actions may have endangered US intelligence operations and personnel. Her case is considered one of the most prominent examples of an American intelligence specialist accused of defecting to a foreign adversary.
