Schiff Could Face Serious Legal Trouble if Classified Leak Allegations Hold Up
Sen. Adam Schiff (D-CA), a longtime figure in Democratic politics, is now facing allegations that could severely damage his career and potentially lead to steep financial penalties or even prison time.
According to reports highlighted by Just the News, a Democrat whistleblower who served more than a decade on the House Intelligence Committee has accused Schiff of authorizing the leaking of classified material during the Trump–Russia investigation.
The claims are supported by newly declassified FBI interview reports.
Allegations Against Schiff
The whistleblower alleges that, during an all-staff meeting in 2017, Schiff suggested leaking classified information that was unfavorable to then-President Donald Trump, with the goal of building a case for his indictment.
When the whistleblower objected, calling the plan “unethical and possibly treasonous,” he claims he was assured by others on staff that the group would not be caught.
The source further alleged that Schiff expected to be rewarded with the position of CIA Director if Hillary Clinton had won the 2016 election.
He also identified Rep. Eric Swalwell (D-CA) as a likely intermediary in the leaks.
After raising concerns to the FBI, the whistleblower says he was abruptly fired.
Potential Penalties
Former U.S. Attorney Brett Tolman explained the potential legal consequences if prosecutors pursue the case.
Leaking classified information can carry fines of up to $250,000 for each violation, depending on the number of charges.
In more severe cases, penalties could escalate to 20 years in federal prison, particularly if prosecutors determine that the leaks were intended to undermine U.S. national security.
Tolman noted that while the allegations may not meet the legal threshold for treason, other serious charges could apply — including conspiracy or obstruction of official proceedings.
FBI Inaction Under Scrutiny
The whistleblower also accused the FBI, including Director Christopher Wray, of failing to act on his repeated reports.
Critics argue this reflects a broader pattern of the bureau shielding politically connected figures while taking a harder stance against political opponents.
🚨Former US Attorney Brett Tolman says Adam Schiff could be facing 20 years in federal prison plus a $250,000 fine for every piece of Russian information he leaked to the media:
“The fine is up to $250,000 for every, every leak that’s charged. So it depends on the counts in the… pic.twitter.com/1lPIKVZFFc
— Benny Johnson (@bennyjohnson) August 12, 2025
Kash Patel, a former Trump administration official, has argued that the FBI’s handling of this case mirrors its questionable use of confidential informants ahead of the January 6 protests, raising further concerns about selective enforcement.
Schiff’s Response
As of now, Schiff has not issued a public statement in response to these latest claims.
In the past, he has consistently denied leaking classified information, describing similar accusations as politically motivated efforts to discredit his oversight work.
