Former U.S. National Security Advisor Sandy Berger has pleaded guilty to taking classified documents from the National Archives in Washington.

Mr. Berger entered the plea Friday to the misdemeanor charges of unauthorized removal and retention of classified materials.

Former National Security Advisor Berger Pleads Guilty to Taking Classified Documents

Mr. Berger, who was national security advisor during former President Bill Clinton's second term, has admitted that in 2003 he hid classified documents in his clothing on two occasions and later destroyed them.

Former National Security Advisor Berger Pleads Guilty to Taking Classified Documents

The charges carry a maximum sentence of one year in jail and a $10,000 fine. Under terms negotiated by his lawyers, Mr. Berger will serve no jail time but will pay a $10,000 fine.

Former National Security Advisor Berger Pleads Guilty to Taking Classified Documents

The 59-year-old Mr. Berger must also surrender his security clearance - access to classified documents - for three years and cooperate with investigators.