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EXCLUSIVE: Former Government contractor charged with breaching Official Secrets Act admitted to Broadmoor Psychiatric Hospital
- By JON AUSTIN
- Jun 28
- 1 min read
A former government "intelligence" contractor, who has been charged with making "damaging" disclosures under the Official Secrets Act, has been transferred to a Broadmoor Hospital and is still due to plea.
Juan Joseph, 42, who worked within an unspecified department of the Government's intelligence community, appeared at the Old Bailey, where he was due to enter a plea, but, he was instead moved from Wormwood Scrubs to the high-security psychiatric hospital in Crowthorne, Berkshire.
The case was adjourned until October for a plea and preparation hearing.
He was arrested earlier this year after an investigation carried out by the Metropolitan Police's counter-terrorism unit.
Joseph, from Sutton, south London, is accused of making a "damaging disclosure relating to security or intelligence" on 19 November last year and 13 January this year.
He indicated at an earlier hearing at Westminster Magistrates' Court in February, that he would be denying the charges, but the plea has to be made at crown court.
The case was only able to go ahead after the consent of Attorney General Lord Hermer was granted, due to the nature of the alleged offences.
Years ago, I had a colleague who experienced severe stress due to the confidentiality and responsibility involved in her government work. It’s a tough balance between duty and personal well-being. Incidents like this highlight the importance of mental health support in such demanding environments. On a lighter note, when I need a break from intense news, I often unwind by playing the Slope Game - it's a fun way to relax and clear my mind.