Indian-American scholar Ashley Tellis, a distinguished national security expert, has been granted pre-trial release on bail in a significant espionage case. The court’s decision came after his legal team provided assurances of full cooperation with investigators and highlighted Tellis’ extensive history of service to U.S. national security. The 64-year-old expert was apprehended earlier this month, facing accusations of possessing top-secret defense documents at his Virginia residence. These classified materials reportedly detail U.S. military capabilities, with prosecutors alleging unlawful retention. Tellis’ legal representatives strongly refuted the espionage allegations, characterizing the documents as mere residual work products from his decades-long government career. They emphasized his lifelong dedication to American security and labeled the charges as an “overreach against a patriot.” Denying any involvement with foreign powers or clandestine activities, the defense asserted that Tellis’ engagements with Chinese officials were part of legitimate academic exchanges. Judge Lindsey Robinson Vaala approved the conditional release, imposing strict stipulations such as passport surrender, travel restrictions, electronic monitoring, and limited online access. The substantial $1.5 million bond, co-signed by his wife, underscored the court’s assessment of Tellis as a low flight risk, citing his strong community ties and long-standing residence in the United States. A preliminary hearing is slated for November 4, 2025.
