A 24-year-old serving member of the Royal Navy has been charged with spying for an unnamed foreign power, the Met Police confirmed.
Teddy Young has been charged with National Security Act (NSA) offences following an investigation by Counter Terrorism Policing London. Young was arrested at his home address in Bedfordshire on Tuesday and taken into custody in London.
Charges authorised by CPS
On Wednesday, the Crown Prosecution Service authorised the following charges:
- Between November 26, 2024, and May 21, 2025, engaged in conduct in preparation for committing an offence of disclosing protected information, contrary to section 18 of the National Security Act 2023.
- Between November 26, 2024, and May 21, 2025, obtained, copied, recorded or retained protected information, intending the conduct to benefit a foreign power, knowing or having regard to other matters known to him ought reasonably to know was prejudicial to the safety or interests of the United Kingdom, contrary to section 1 of the National Security Act 2023.
Commander's statement
Commander Helen Flanagan, Head of Counter Terrorism Policing London, said: “These are very serious charges against a serving member of the armed forces. We have worked extremely closely with relevant operational colleagues within the Ministry of Defence as our investigation has progressed to ensure appropriate measures could be taken to mitigate any potential risks linked to this matter. It is important now that any further speculation on this case is avoided and so that the case can progress through the courts and the justice process not be impeded in any way.”
Court appearance and context
Young has been remanded in police custody to appear at Westminster Magistrates’ Court today. The arrest and charges are not connected to the recent investigation into the incident at RAF Fairford.
