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How to sentence a spy

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20 June 2025 / Sailesh Mehta , Theo Burges
Issue: 8121 / Categories: Features , Criminal , National security
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Sailesh Mehta & Theo Burges consider the sentencing of Daniel Khalife & the growing intersection between terrorism & espionage offences
  • An overview of the history and core principles of sentencing in espionage cases.
  • The growing intersection between terrorism and espionage offences.
  • The likelihood that prosecutions in this area will increase significantly, making it essential for practitioners to deepen their understanding of this aspect of the law.

On 3 February 2025, Daniel Khalife was sentenced by Mrs Justice Cheema-Grubb to 14 years and three months’ immediate custody. This followed a trial at Woolwich Crown Court from October to November 2024. Following trial, Khalife was found guilty of committing an act prejudicial to the safety or interests of the state, contrary to s 1(1)(c) of the Official Secrets Act 1911 (OSA 1911), and eliciting information about members of the armed forces, contrary to s 58A of the Terrorism Act 2000. Khalife pleaded guilty to escaping from lawful custody following the conclusion of his evidence in chief on 11 November 2024.

Khalife was sentenced as follows:

  • committing an act prejudicial
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