‘Certainly looks suspicious’: Ex FBI official on search on John Bolton's home

Legal & Political Analysis - The FBI search of John Bolton's home and office raises concerns about potential political retribution, requiring scrutiny of the case agent's leanings and the magistrate judge who approved the warrant [2][4][5] - The search warrant requires probable cause of criminal activity and evidence at the searched locations, protecting against unreasonable search and seizure under the Fourth Amendment [2][3] - The investigation's focus is likely on the retention or leaking of classified information, requiring proof of Bolton's intent to knowingly and willfully commit a crime [17][19][20] - The release of the search warrant details and the search returns (listing items seized) will be crucial for understanding the justification and scope of the search [7][8][9] Key Individuals & Relationships - The relationship between John Bolton and Donald Trump deteriorated after Bolton's tenure as National Security Advisor (approximately 18 months from 2018 to 2019), leading to his termination and revocation of security clearance [11][12] - Bolton's past comments criticizing Trump regarding classified documents are being highlighted amidst the current investigation [15] Procedural Aspects - A "sensitive investigative measure" (SIM) likely required approval by the Attorney General for the search [4] - Standard procedure in high-profile cases involves discreet contact with the individual's counsel before a search, contrasting with the spectacle of a raid [5]