Mohammed Alavi, 49, is accused of downloading training materials and access codes from the Palos Verde Nuclear Generation Station to his computer while he was on a trip in Tehran, Iran.
According to published reports, Alavi was charged with violating a trade embargo law that forbids Americans from offering goods or services to Iran.
Alavi, a U.S. citizen, was reportedly visiting Iran to set up a new home and life for himself. He quit his job at Palos Verde in August after working 16 years, but still had access to some security codes.
The software Alavi allegedly used to download Palos Verde material allowed access to the power plant’s layout and control rooms. Alavi reportedly used a Palos Verde user’s identification to download the material.
It was reported that there was no security risk posed nor was the breach linked to the Iranian government. Federal officials feared that potential danger could arise if the access codes were placed in the wrong hands.
Alavi, a U.S. citizen reportedly denies wrongdoing. If convicted, he could face up to two years in prison.
Palos Verde employees learned of Alavi’s arrest and charge on April 21, when security procedures were changed.
Palos Verde supplies electricity to 4 million customers in parts of Arizona, New Mexico, Texas and California.