A U.S. judge orders a former CIA officer to remain in jail pending trial after he is accused of stealing gold bars worth more than $40 million from the federal government and storing them at his home in Virginia. According to reporting, the case centers on gold bars allegedly found at the defendant’s residence in the Alexandria, Virginia area, with the amount described as about $40 million. At a court hearing, the judge issues a pretrial detention ruling, keeping him behind bars while criminal theft charges proceed. One account says the decision follows arguments presented during the hearing. The defense challenges the way prosecutors characterize the allegations, describing them as “sensational,” while prosecutors pursue the detention request. The ruling does not resolve guilt, and the matter moves toward trial on the theft-related charges. The court’s decision reflects that the judge finds pretrial detention warranted under the circumstances of the case while proceedings continue.