BREAKING: Ex-FBI Director James Comey Indicted on Charges of Lying and Obstructing Congress
Former FBI Director James Comey has been indicted by a grand jury on two counts: alleged false statements within the jurisdiction of the legislative branch and obstruction of a congressional proceeding. The indictment comes amid ongoing scrutiny of Comey’s actions during his tenure at the FBI, particularly regarding the controversial Trump-Russia investigation known as “Crossfire Hurricane.”
According to sources, Comey is scheduled to turn himself in on Friday, with his arraignment set for 10 a.m. on October 9 in Alexandria Courtroom 600 before District Judge Michael S. Nachmanoff. The indictment alleges that Comey obstructed a congressional investigation into the disclosure of sensitive information, violating 18 USC 1505. Additionally, it claims that Comey made a false statement regarding whether he authorized someone at the FBI to act as an anonymous source.
This indictment follows a criminal investigation by the FBI that reportedly began in July, focusing on Comey’s testimony before Congress on September 30, 2020, concerning his handling of the original Trump-Russia probe.
Attorney General Pam Bondi commented on the indictment, stating, “No one is above the law. Today’s indictment reflects this Department of Justice’s commitment to holding those who abuse positions of power accountable for misleading the American people.” She emphasized that the investigation would follow the facts wherever they lead.
FBI Director Kash Patel also expressed his views on social media, asserting that the indictment signifies a step toward accountability. He criticized previous leadership for allegedly politicizing federal law enforcement, stating, “Every day, we continue the fight to earn that trust back.”
In an Instagram post on Thursday, Comey acknowledged the personal risks associated with his decision to stand up to former President Donald Trump. He stated, “We couldn’t imagine ourselves living any other way. We will not live on our knees, and you shouldn’t.” Comey expressed his heartbreak for the Department of Justice but maintained his innocence, calling for a trial to prove his case.
The indictment occurs against the backdrop of a tumultuous period in U.S. politics. Comey was at the center of the FBI’s investigation into Russian interference in the 2016 presidential election, which was initiated in July 2016 and later became known as “Crossfire Hurricane.” This investigation was heavily scrutinized and led to the appointment of Special Counsel Robert Mueller, who concluded in March 2019 that there was no evidence of criminal conspiracy between the Trump campaign and Russian officials.
Following Mueller’s investigation, John Durham was appointed as special counsel to investigate the origins of the “Crossfire Hurricane” probe. Durham’s report indicated that the FBI had failed to adequately consider intelligence suggesting that the bureau was being manipulated for political purposes, particularly regarding the Clinton campaign.
The indictment has elicited strong reactions from various political figures. Former President Trump took to his Truth Social account to express his approval of the indictment, labeling Comey as “one of the worst human beings this Country has ever been exposed to.” Trump stated that Comey’s indictment is a step toward holding him accountable for his actions during his time as FBI director.
James Comey’s indictment marks a significant development in the ongoing fallout from the Trump-Russia investigation and raises questions about accountability and transparency within federal law enforcement. As Comey prepares for his arraignment, the legal proceedings will likely draw considerable public and media attention, further illuminating the complex interplay between politics and justice in contemporary America. The outcome of this case could have lasting implications for both Comey’s legacy and the broader landscape of U.S. law enforcement.
