Why a Young American Wants to Be a Russian Spy

Tim Foley, 20, is the eldest son of Donald Heathfield and Tracey Foley, whose real names are Andrei Bezrukov and Yelena Vavilova. Tim became a problem for U.S. authorities from the outset of the spy scandal. He had already finished his sophomore year at George Washington University when his parents were arrested by U.S. authorities. Following the deportation of the Russian agents from the United States, Foley informed the university that he still planned to continue his studies there. But since Foley reportedly knew sensitive details about his parents' activities, Russian authorities have not allowed him to return to the United States.

On July 31, The Wall Street Journal reported that the FBI had determined Tim Foley's desire to serve Russia's intelligence services after bugging the Foleys' home. According to FBI officials, Tim's parents told their son they wanted him to follow in their footsteps, after which Tim stood up and swore allegiance to "Mother Russia," the Journal said