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Retired Navy sailor pleads not guilty to attempted espionage charges

Posted at 1:45 PM, Dec 19, 2012
and last updated 2012-12-19 20:10:03-05

Norfolk, Va. - A retired Navy Cryptologist has pleaded not guilty to attempted espionage charges.

Robert Hoffman entered the plea during his arraignment in Norfolk Federal Court Wednesday morning.

Hoffman is charged with trying to sell secrets about U.S. submarines to the Russians. He asked for a trial by jury.

His attorney says he is ready to fight the charges. 

Hoffman could face the death penalty.

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