A former MI5 employee has been sectioned after being accused of repeatedly leaking sensitive information to a foreign power.
Former MI5 Contractor Detained Under Mental Health Act
Juan Joseph, 43, a former government IT contractor, was found not guilty by reason of insanity following a week-long trial at the Old Bailey in March. He had emailed a foreign state and travelled to an embassy overseas in an attempt to pursue a complaint against MI5.
On Wednesday, at a hearing at the Old Bailey, Joseph was detained indefinitely under sections 37 and 41 of the Mental Health Act. Mr. Justice Hilliard stated, “I accept that Mr Joseph would not have done what he did if he had not been mentally ill.” Yet, the judge also expressed concern that if Joseph’s mental health deteriorates, there is a “very obvious risk that similar conduct could be repeated” with “very serious” consequences for national security.
Joseph was diagnosed with paranoid schizophrenia and, according to the court, did not understand that his actions were wrong. Four psychiatrists agreed that a restricted hospital order was appropriate. Prosecuting, Ms. Jocelyn Ledward KC, noted a “high risk” of similar actions if Joseph’s mental health were to decline again.
The court heard Joseph’s 11-year career at MI5 included roles as a systems engineer, security IT management engineer, and senior support engineer. His contract was terminated in October 2020 after he was admitted to St Thomas’ Hospital in London due to “mental fragility,” “extreme anxiety,” and “paranoia.” He discharged himself before a full assessment could be completed.
Following the termination of his contract, Joseph made a series of complaints against MI5, including claims of racist treatment and “highly disturbing” allegations of rape, child abuse, and torture. He also claimed a swastika had been placed in his office and that he had been injected with an unknown substance at MI5 headquarters. The trial was held largely behind closed doors to protect national security.
Joseph travelled to Riga, Latvia, in December 2024, attempting to arrange a meeting at a foreign embassy. He was arrested at Gatwick Airport upon his return, and again at an Ibis Hotel on January 30, 2025, where a lock knife was found in his possession. He maintained he was an “armed MI5 officer” and possessed a forged identification card.
The prosecution revealed Joseph had been arrested in early 2022 on similar charges, but no further action was taken at that time. He was subsequently admitted to a hospital for a mental health assessment, but was discharged when deemed not “sufficiently unwell” to remain hospitalized.
Frequently Asked Questions
What charges was Juan Joseph facing?
Joseph denied four charges under the Official Secrets and National Security Acts and having an article with a blade or point, but was found not guilty by reason of insanity.
Where will Juan Joseph be held?
Joseph will remain at Broadmoor Hospital indefinitely.
What was the judge’s assessment of Joseph’s mental state?
Mr. Justice Hilliard accepted that Joseph’s actions were a result of his mental illness, specifically paranoid schizophrenia, and that he did not have a “guilty mind” or understand that his actions were wrong.
Given the complexities of this case, and the intersection of mental health and national security, what safeguards are necessary to balance individual rights with the protection of sensitive information?