Justice Department Contemplates New Indictments for Comey and James
In a twist that could make even the most seasoned political watchers raise an eyebrow, the Justice Department is mulling over the prospect of re-indicting former FBI Director James Comey and New York Attorney General Letitia James. This comes more than a week after a federal judge dismissed earlier cases against both figures, leaving the DoJ in a bit of a legal pickle.
A Complicated Legal Landscape
Attorney General Pam Bondi announced on November 24 that the Justice Department would file an “immediate appeal” following the judge’s order, but as of now, that appeal has yet to materialize. Instead, sources close to the matter hint that prosecutors may be leaning toward seeking fresh indictments—because why not shake things up a bit?
The Legal Hurdles
While a new path could sidestep the complications wrought by identified “unlawful” actions of Lindsey Halligan, the former prosecutor in the Eastern District of Virginia, significant challenges lie ahead. Both Comey and James have already pleaded not guilty, and legal pundits are raising eyebrows over possible claims of selective and vindictive prosecution.
Adding to the drama, the five-year statute of limitations regarding Comey’s 2020 congressional testimony has now run out. However, federal law does allow a six-month extension to secure an indictment after a dismissal, which provides a glimmer of hope for those in search of fresh legal fireworks.
What Lies Ahead?
If the Justice Department manages to persuade another federal grand jury to reconsider Comey, a pivotal point will be whether the prior indictment holds any weight, especially since Judge Cameron Currie ruled that Halligan was unlawfully appointed to present that indictment in the first place.
As for James, the clock appears to be on her side regarding the alleged mortgage-related issue, with the statute of limitations not expected to expire until at least March. Talk about being fashionably late.
Property Disputes and Constitutional Rights
Meanwhile, Comey’s legal counsel, Daniel Richman, is stirring the pot further by requesting a federal judge to return property that has been in government custody for over six years. Richman’s team alleges that the government executed a “new warrantless search” last September, effectively trampling on constitutional rules and attorney-client privilege.
Conclusion: A Waiting Game
Magistrate Judge William Fitzpatrick has already indicated that the government likely overstepped its bounds in its search efforts. As Richman himself stated, the government’s actions have deprived him of his constitutional rights. The court has requested Richman file a motion for a temporary restraining order, setting the stage for what could be another thrilling legal showdown.
With the stakes higher than ever, it seems the nation will have to stay tuned. Will new indictments emerge from the shadows, or is this just another chapter in the saga of Comey and James? Only time will tell.
