Jack Teixeira, a member of the Massachusetts Air National Guard, who stands accused of leaking highly classified military documents on a social media platform, declared his innocence on Wednesday, pleading not guilty to federal felony charges.

During a hearing held in Worcester’s federal court, the 21-year-old Teixeira entered his pleas, following his recent indictment by a grand jury on six counts of willful retention and transmission of national defense information.

Each of these counts carries a potential prison sentence of up to 10 years, the Associated Press has reported.

Teixeira, handcuffed and clad in orange jail attire, exchanged smiles with his family seated in the gallery as the hearing commenced.

Standing alongside his legal counsel at the defense table, he leaned over to address the court, stating “not guilty, your honor” into the microphone after the judge read each count.

The judge, however, rejected a defense request to reconsider the order for his detention.

Hailing from North Dighton, Teixeira has remained in custody since his arrest in April on charges related to one of the most significant intelligence leaks in recent memory.

Last month, a magistrate judge determined that Teixeira should remain in jail throughout the duration of the case, citing concerns that his release would pose a flight risk or potential obstruction of justice.

Written by staff