US Scholar Tellis Released on Bail in Espionage Probe

National security expert Ashley Tellis has been granted bail ahead of his trial in a sensitive espionage case, marking a significant turn in the investigation. Tellis, a 64-year-old Indian-American policy adviser, faced allegations of illegally possessing classified U.S. defense documents at his home in Virginia. Prosecutors contend these papers, detailing sensitive military information, were retained unlawfully. His defense team has strongly refuted all espionage claims, maintaining that the materials were non-sensitive work documents accumulated over a distinguished career dedicated to U.S. national security. They also dismissed allegations of foreign entanglements, stating that interactions with Chinese officials were part of legitimate academic pursuits. Following assurances of cooperation and a demonstration of strong community ties, Judge Lindsey Robinson Vaala approved Tellis’ release under strict conditions. These include surrendering his passport, adhering to travel restrictions, undergoing electronic monitoring, and facing limitations on his online activity. The substantial $1.5 million bond, supported by his wife and family assets, reflects the court’s confidence that Tellis is not a flight risk. A preliminary hearing is scheduled for November 4, 2025, to further address the case.