Retired Army Colonel Sentenced for Sharing Classified Info

Kevin Luke shared sensitive military details with girlfriend to impress her

Published on Feb. 14, 2026

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Retired U.S. Army Colonel Kevin Luke was sentenced to 24 months in prison for sharing classified information with a woman he was dating in an attempt to impress her. Luke served in the Army and Army Reserve from 1981 to 2018, including during Operation Iraqi Freedom, and later worked as a civilian contractor for the U.S. Army Central Command. In 2024, he took a photo of his computer screen displaying classified information and sent it to his girlfriend, along with a message about a planned military operation. After they broke up, she reported the incident, leading to an FBI investigation that uncovered additional classified documents in Luke's possession.

Why it matters

This case highlights the serious consequences for military personnel who mishandle classified information, even if done in an attempt to impress a romantic partner. It also raises concerns about the potential national security risks posed by individuals with security clearances who may be vulnerable to exploitation.

The details

In October 2024, Luke used his mobile phone to take a photo of his computer screen displaying an email marked "SECRET//REL TO USA, FVEY". The email contained details about a planned U.S. military operation, including the objectives, date, means of conducting the operation, and its purpose. Luke then sent the photo and a message about the opportunity to "watch to make a living" to the woman he was dating. Shortly after, the two broke up and she reported the incident to authorities. The FBI and Air Force later searched Luke's home and found additional classified documents, although there was no evidence he shared them with anyone else.

  • In October 2024, Luke took the photo of the classified email and sent it to his girlfriend.
  • In late 2024, the FBI and Air Force conducted a search warrant at Luke's home and found additional classified documents.
  • In October 2025, Luke pleaded guilty to the charges.
  • In February 2026, Luke was sentenced to 24 months in prison.

The players

Kevin Luke

A retired U.S. Army Colonel who served from 1981 to 2018, including during Operation Iraqi Freedom, and later worked as a civilian contractor for the U.S. Army Central Command. He was sentenced to 24 months in prison for sharing classified information with a woman he was dating.

U.S. Army Central Command

The organization where Luke worked as a civilian contractor after retiring from the Army.

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What they’re saying

“sent to my boss earlier, gives you the opportunity to watch to make a living.”

— Kevin Luke, Retired U.S. Army Colonel

What’s next

After his release from prison, Luke will serve 12 months of probation and undergo a mental health examination.

The takeaway

This case underscores the importance of military personnel and government contractors strictly adhering to protocols for handling classified information, even in personal situations, to protect national security interests.