Former Trump administration national security adviser John Bolton is expected to plead guilty to charges involving the mishandling of classified documents, sources familiar with the matter told ABC News on Thursday.

The development marks a significant turn for Bolton, who served in a high-profile national security role during the Trump presidency and has been involved in legal proceedings related to document retention.

Details surrounding the specific nature of the alleged mishandling and the terms of the expected plea agreement were not immediately available. Bolton could not be reached for comment by ABC News. The Department of Justice also declined to comment on the matter.

This expected plea could have implications for ongoing investigations into the handling of sensitive government information by former officials. It also raises questions about the legal pathways and potential consequences for individuals entrusted with classified material.

Bolton's tenure as national security adviser from April 2018 to September 2019 was marked by his hawkish foreign policy stances and frequent public appearances. Prior to his role in the Trump administration, Bolton served in various capacities within Republican administrations, including as U.S. Ambassador to the United Nations under President George W. Bush.

The case against Bolton is part of a broader legal landscape concerning the retention and classification of government documents by former officials. Several high-profile figures have faced scrutiny and legal action related to similar issues in recent years.

Legal experts suggest that a guilty plea typically indicates a defendant's willingness to accept responsibility for certain charges in exchange for a potentially reduced sentence or other concessions from prosecutors. The specifics of Bolton's case will depend on the details of the plea agreement and the judge's approval.

Further information is expected to emerge as the legal process unfolds. The public and legal community will be watching closely for any official statements from Bolton's legal team or the Department of Justice regarding the charges and the terms of the anticipated plea.