A US judge has dismissed criminal charges against former FBI Director James Comey and New York Attorney General Letitia James, ruling that the prosecutor who brought the charges was unlawfully appointed.
Judge Cameron Currie stated that Lindsey Halligan, who was handpicked by Trump to bring the charges against Comey and James, was never eligible to assume her post. Comey and James have consistently maintained their innocence, suggesting that the prosecutions were politically motivated.
In reaction to the ruling, a spokesperson for the White House asserted that the allegations against Comey and James had not been resolved, indicating that this is not the final judgment on these matters.
Former President Donald Trump has openly criticized both Comey and James, declaring in a statement, They’re all guilty as hell and demanding that JUSTICE MUST BE SERVED, NOW!. Judge Currie's ruling clarified that Halligan, previously a White House aide with no prior prosecutorial experience, was ineligible to present the charges to a grand jury.
Following the decision, Comey expressed relief, stating he was thankful that a prosecution based on malevolence and incompetence has ended, although he anticipated further actions from Trump. Comey had been previously dismissed by Trump while leading investigations into alleged Russian interference in the 2016 Presidential Election.
James, responding to the ruling, expressed her determination to continue her work for New Yorkers, viewing the dismissal as a victory.
Moreover, the dismissal of the cases was rendered without prejudice, suggesting that federal prosecutors retain the option to recharge the individuals in the future.
The Department of Justice indicated plans to appeal the dismissal of the cases against Comey and James, asserting Halligan's legitimacy as an appointee. White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt accused the judge of attempting to protect Comey and James.
As the legal battles continue, the political ramifications of this case remain significant, highlighting the ongoing contention between the Trump administration and its adversaries.
