High-ranking US official, 29, allegedly solicited funds from 'sugar daddy' for expensive lifestyle, under investigation

A U.S. counterterrorism official has been allegedly placed on administrative leave for allegedly soliciting money from “sugar daddies” to maintain her expensive lifestyle.

A formal complaint was filed against the official, identified as 29-year-old Julia Varvaro, Daily Mail reported.

According to Varvaro’s LinkedIn, she is a Deputy Assistant Secretary for Counterterrorism at the U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS).

Robert B

The formal complaint to the Inspector General of DHS was filed by an executive identified as Robert B, a 57-year-old divorced father.

He refused to disclose his last name.

Robert claimed that he spent approximately US$40,000 (S$51,032.48) on Varvaro.

They apparently met on Hinge, a dating app.

They first connected in January and then embarked on a three-month relationship.

The 57-year-old said he took Varvaro on first-class trips to Aruba, Italy, San Diego and South Carolina during their time together.

He also claimed that he spent approximately US$30,000 (S$38,274.36) to US$40,000 (S$51,032.48) on vacations, jewellery, handbags, and various shopping trips.

Allegations

Robert alleged that Varvaro created a profile on Seeking, a “sugar daddy” site.

She called herself “Alessia” and apparently offered “seductive sophistication”.

The profile has been removed.

“I did not want a sugar daddy/prostitution relationship,” he said in his complaint.

The 57-year-old said he believed that Varvaro was under “financial stress and that her actions pose a security risk”.

Robert further alleged that Varvaro also consumed marijuana and recreational Xanax during their relationship.

Denial

Speaking to the Daily Mail, Varvaro denied any wrongdoing.

“I didn't know it was bad to go on vacation with your boyfriend,” she said.

Varvaro also denied illegal substance use and having a profile on Seeking.

Officials responses

Former Central Intelligence Agency (CIA) officer Marc Polymeropoulos commented on the incident.

“Allegations of a sugar daddy relationship and unreported income from that relationship are serious issues for DHS security personnel that need to be resolved,” he told Daily Mail.

Polymeropoulus also questioned Varvaro’s vetting process.

A DHS spokesperson refused to comment on the incident, as it was under “ internal investigations”.

The Inspector General also did not confirm or deny that an investigation was underway.

Vivaro now serves as special envoy to the Shield of the Americas, FOX News reported.