Trump goes after former foe Comey, FBI ex-director may be jailed
Donald Trump (photo: Getty Images)
Former FBI Director James Comey has been federally indicted by a US grand jury. This development comes amid a major confrontation between the administration of Donald Trump and his longtime critic, according to CNN.
According to prosecutors, James Comey authorized the leak of information about the FBI investigation to the media through an anonymous source, and then, under oath, denied this to Congress.
Both counts of the indictment are related to his testimony on September 30, 2020, before the Senate Judiciary Committee.
Comey now faces up to five years in prison if found guilty.
The indictment was signed by Lindsey Galligan, a former personal attorney of Trump and the new US Attorney for the Eastern District of Virginia. She underwent expedited training before participating in the hearing, which is unusual for federal prosecutors.
The former FBI director responded to the charges on Instagram, stating, "Let’s have a trial. And keep the faith. My heart is broken for the Department of Justice but I have great confidence in the federal judicial system and I’m innocent."
In turn, US President Donald Trump described Comey on social media as one of the worst people the country has ever faced and expressed support for the charges.
Attorney General Pam Bondi emphasized in a statement that no one is above the law and that only the facts will guide this case.
This is the first instance of federal charges being filed against a high-ranking US government official who held a key position in the FBI, marking a significant escalation in the ongoing conflict between Trump and his political opponents.
On Thursday, September 25, US President Donald Trump signed an executive order allowing the death penalty to be applied for serious crimes in the District of Columbia.
Critics expressed concern that the move could violate local self-governance and human rights, arguing that it may be seen as excessive federal interference in matters traditionally handled at the local level.
Supporters, however, view it as a necessary measure to ensure law and order and protect the safety of citizens in the capital.
