Aldrich Hazen Ames, more commonly known by his nickname "Rick," led a career within the Central Intelligence Agency (CIA) that spanned over three decades, beginning his life on May 26, 1941. However, his legacy is not defined by his service, but by a profound act of betrayal: he became a notorious KGB double agent, selling highly classified U.S. secrets first to the Soviet Union and subsequently to Russia. This devastating treachery ultimately led to his conviction for espionage in 1994, marking a significant and damaging chapter in American intelligence history.

A Career of Deception: From CIA Officer to KGB Double Agent

For 31 years, Aldrich Ames operated as a CIA counterintelligence officer, a role that inherently tasked him with safeguarding the national security interests of the United States. Despite this critical responsibility, Ames clandestinely began spying for the Soviet Union. His allegiance shifted dramatically, and even after the collapse of the USSR, his espionage activities seamlessly continued as he passed information to Russian intelligence services. His decision to become a KGB double agent represented not merely a personal failing, but a monumental breach of trust that sent shockwaves through the entire U.S. intelligence community.

Unprecedented Compromises and Lasting Damage

The scale of Aldrich Ames's treason was staggering and deeply damaging. By the time of his arrest, he had compromised more highly classified CIA assets—including agents, sensitive operations, and critical intelligence sources—than any other officer in the agency's history up to that point. This infamous record of betrayal remained unsurpassed for seven years until the arrest of Robert Hanssen in 2001, another notorious spy who would eventually exceed even Ames's level of damage. The intelligence Ames provided to the Soviets and Russians directly led to the deaths of numerous U.S. intelligence assets and severely crippled America's capacity to gather vital information on its adversaries. His actions stand as a stark and enduring reminder of the catastrophic potential inherent in insider threats.

A Life Behind Bars: The Price of Betrayal

Ultimately, justice caught up with Ames. Following his conviction for espionage in 1994, he was sentenced to a life term in prison, notably without the possibility of parole. This ensures that his remaining days will be spent in federal custody. Today, Aldrich Ames continues to serve his life sentence at the Federal Correctional Institution in Terre Haute, Indiana, United States, a grim and permanent consequence for betraying his nation and its secrets.

Frequently Asked Questions About Aldrich Ames

Who is Aldrich Ames?

Aldrich Hazen "Rick" Ames is a former Central Intelligence Agency (CIA) officer who gained infamy as a KGB double agent, spying for the Soviet Union and Russia against the United States. He was convicted of espionage in 1994.

When was Aldrich Ames born?

Aldrich Ames was born on May 26, 1941.

What was his role at the CIA?

He served as a 31-year CIA counterintelligence officer before his betrayal was uncovered.

What was the impact of his espionage?

Ames compromised more highly classified CIA assets than any other officer in history at the time of his arrest, causing immense damage to U.S. intelligence operations and leading to the deaths of several agents.

Where is Aldrich Ames imprisoned?

He is currently serving a life sentence without parole at the Federal Correctional Institution in Terre Haute, Indiana, United States.

Was he the most damaging spy in U.S. history?

At the time of his arrest, he had compromised more assets than any other officer. However, his record of damage was later surpassed by Robert Hanssen, who was arrested seven years after Ames in 2001.