Who Is Paul Whelan? Age, Biography and Wiki
Paul Whelan, an American citizen born on March 5, 1970, has been a significant figure in recent news due to his detention in Russia. As of 2025, Paul is 55 years old. He served in the U.S. Marine Corps and has worked in various roles, primarily focused on security and technology. His experiences have shaped his public persona, especially following his arrest on espionage charges in Russia in December 2018.
| Occupation | Spies |
|---|---|
| Date of Birth | March 5, 1970 |
| Age | 55 Years |
| Birth Place | N/A |
| Horoscope | Pisces |
| Country |
Popularity
Paul Whelan's Popularity over time
Height, Weight & Measurements
Paul Whelan stands at an approximate height of 6 feet (183 cm) and weighs around 210 lbs (95 kg). While specific body measurements such as chest, waist, and hip size are not disclosed publicly, his physical appearance reflects his military background, characterized by a robust build and disciplined demeanor.
Family, Dating & Relationship Status
Currently, there is limited public information regarding Paul Whelan's family and personal relationships. His parents have been vocal about their support during his detention, yet details about any romantic relationships, including a girlfriend or boyfriend, have not been shared widely. As of 2025, Paul remains single, and his focus has largely been on his freedom and legal matters.
Net Worth and Salary
As of 2025, Paul Whelan's net worth is estimated to be around $500,000. While his earnings stem from his previous jobs and roles, much of his financial focus has shifted to legal expenses and maintaining his appeal against the charges in Russia.
He took military leave from Kelly Services to serve with the Marine Corps Reserve from 2003 to 2008, including service in Iraq. He held the rank of staff sergeant with Marine Air Control Group 38, working as an administrative clerk and administrative chief, and was part of Operation Iraqi Freedom.
After a court-martial conviction in January 2008 on multiple counts "related to larceny", he was sentenced to 60 days restriction, reduction to pay grade E-4, and a bad conduct discharge.
The specific charges against him included "attempted larceny, three specifications of dereliction of duty, making a false official statement, wrongfully using another's social security number, and ten specifications of making and uttering checks without having sufficient funds in his account for payment."
Career, Business and Investments
Before his detention, Paul worked in various capacities, including a significant role in corporate security and IT management. His military service likely laid the groundwork for his career in security. Despite his challenges, Whelan's skills in technology and security remain prominent, with potential post-release opportunities anticipated in the fields of cybersecurity or consultancy.
He became an IT manager for the Kelly Services staffing company from 2001 to 2003, and then 2008 to 2010. From 2010 to 2016, Whelan was promoted to Kelly Services' senior manager of global security and operations.
Social Network
Paul Whelan is currently not active on any social media networks due to his ongoing legal situation. However, his family and supporters maintain a presence on platforms like Twitter and Facebook, raising awareness about his case and advocating for his release. Updates on his situation are often shared through these accounts, providing a lifeline to supporters and concerned individuals.
Whelan traveled to Russia several times from 2006 and maintained an intermittent presence on a Russian-language social media website, VKontakte (VK), where he had approximately 70 contacts. He has studied Russian but communicated online using Google Translate. Whelan supported Donald Trump in the 2016 U.S.
presidential election; following Trump's victory, he posted in Russian Президент Трyмп Вперед!! ("President Trump Onward!!").
Education
Paul Whelan attended the University of Notre Dame, where he earned a degree in Criminal Justice. This educational background, combined with his military training, equipped him for a career in security and investigative roles, further defining his path before his unexpected legal issues.
As Paul Whelan navigates the complexities of his situation, the public continues to rally for awareness and support, amplifying his story and advocating for justice in 2025.
He was raised partly in the Ann Arbor area of Michigan where he and his twin brother David graduated from Huron High School in 1988. In addition to his twin brother, Paul Whelan has a brother, Andrew, and a sister, Elizabeth. He said in a deposition in 2013 that he holds a bachelor's degree in criminal justice and an MBA degree.
He took courses at Northern Michigan University from fall 1988 to fall 1990 without earning a degree.
