In a shocking development, one of U.S. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth’s closest advisers, Dan Caldwell, has been placed on leave amid an ongoing investigation into a Pentagon leak probe.

According to sources close to the matter, Caldwell was escorted from the Pentagon on Tuesday afternoon after being questioned by investigators about his involvement in the alleged leak. The incident has left many wondering if Caldwell’s departure is related to the ongoing probe, which is currently examining a series of high-profile leaks within the Defense Department.

Caldwell, who serves as Hegseth’s senior adviser on national security and foreign policy issues, has been a key player in shaping the administration’s defense strategy. His involvement in the leak probe has raised eyebrows among lawmakers and watchdog groups, who are growing increasingly concerned about the handling of sensitive information by Pentagon officials.

The investigation into the leaks is believed to be focused on a series of classified documents that were allegedly shared with unauthorized individuals outside of official channels. The probe is being led by the Defense Department’s Office of Inspector General, with assistance from other agencies.

While details of Caldwell’s involvement in the leak probe remain scarce, his removal from his duties has sent a clear message: the administration will not tolerate any further breaches of national security protocol.

Hegseth’s office released a statement earlier today confirming Caldwell’s departure and expressing his “full cooperation” with the investigation. “Secretary Hegseth is committed to upholding the highest standards of integrity and security within the Department of Defense,” the statement read.

As the probe continues, lawmakers are calling for greater transparency and accountability from Pentagon officials. “This latest development raises serious concerns about the handling of sensitive information by senior officials in the Defense Department,” said Senator Roger Wicker, chair of the Senate Armed Services Committee. “We need to ensure that our national security secrets are being protected with the utmost care.”

The incident has also sparked renewed calls for greater oversight and reform within the Pentagon, particularly when it comes to leaks and classified information.

Stay tuned for further updates on this developing story as more information becomes available.