Pentagon launches leak probe using polygraphs amid unauthorized disclosures

The Department of Defense has initiated an investigation into recent unauthorized disclosures of national security information, announcing that polygraph tests will be used as part of the probe, according to a memo published on the department’s website on Friday.

DOD Chief of Staff Joe Kasper wrote in the memo, “The use of polygraphs in the execution of this investigation will be in accordance with applicable law and policy.” He added that the inquiry would begin immediately and conclude with a report to the Secretary of Defense, with any information identifying a party responsible for the leak referred for criminal prosecution.

The investigation comes on the heels of controversy sparked by a New York Times report suggesting that DOGE head Elon Musk was briefed on U.S. military plans for a potential war with China during his visit to the Pentagon on Friday. President Donald Trump had pushed back on the report, insisting that such plans would not be shared “with anybody,” while Pentagon officials dismissed the story on social media. Musk, however, did meet with Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth for over an hour on Friday.

This move marks the latest in a series of government efforts to use polygraph tests as a tool in leak investigations. Earlier this month, Secretary of Homeland Security Kristi Noem announced that her department would continue using polygraphs—including questions about media leaks—after identifying two leakers within the agency. “We plan to prosecute these two individuals and hold them accountable for what they’ve done,” Noem said in a video posted on X.

In related news, the Department of Justice announced its own probe on Friday into what it termed “the selective leak of inaccurate, but nevertheless classified” information related to the Venezuelan gang Tren de Aragua. Deputy Attorney General Todd Blanche stated, “We will not tolerate politically motivated efforts by the Deep State to undercut President Trump’s agenda by leaking false information,” adding that the legal process would address these actions under the Alien Enemies Proclamation.

With multiple agencies now scrutinizing leak-related activities, the Pentagon’s use of polygraphs underscores a broader government initiative to clamp down on unauthorized disclosures and safeguard sensitive national security information.

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