washington D.C. – Former FBI Director James Comey was indicted on two felony charges by a grand jury, according to court documents unsealed Thursday night. The indictment comes as Donald Trump publicly calls for the prosecution of his political adversaries and celebrates the charges on his Truth Social platform.
prosecutors had sought a third charge against Comey, but the grand jury rejected that request. The specific details of the charges were not promptly available, though Comey stated, “I am innocent,” following the indictment. He is expected to surrender and appear in federal district court on Friday morning, and is anticipated to be represented by former US attorney Patrick Fitzgerald.
If convicted, Comey faces up to five years in prison. However, legal experts suggest the case may present challenges for prosecutors.
The charges have drawn criticism from current and former Justice Department officials, who questioned the strength of the evidence. Barbara McQuade, a former US attorney for the eastern district of Michigan, described the situation as “a sad day for the rule of law,” adding, “Trump’s comments…makes a mockery of prosecutorial discretion.” She suggested the case could be dismissed on grounds of selective prosecution.
The indictment occurred shortly before Comey’s son-in-law, Troy Edwards, resigned from his position as a federal prosecutor in Virginia, citing a need “to uphold my oath to the Constitution and the country.”
Trump has repeatedly expressed animosity towards Comey,dating back to his presidency. Comey has publicly stated that Trump sought a pledge of loyalty from him during the inquiry into Russian interference in the 2016 US election. Trump ultimately dismissed Comey in May 2017.
In recent social media posts,Trump claimed Comey,along with other political opponents,were “guilty as hell” and lamented the lack of action against them,stating,”JUSTICE MUST BE SERVED,NOW!!!” He also referenced his own impeachments and indictments,calling them baseless.
