LIVE: DOJ briefing after new indictment against former FBI Director Comey

Two felony counts returned

A grand jury in the Eastern District of North Carolina indicted Comey for knowingly making a threat to kill the President and transmitting that threat in interstate commerce on May 15, 2025.

Maximum penalties

Each count carries a maximum sentence of 10 years imprisonment, totaling a potential 20-year sentence if convicted on both charges.

Post was deleted with apology

According to officials, Comey deleted the alleged threat shortly after posting it and subsequently issued a public apology, which was presented as evidence to the grand jury.

11-month multi-agency probe

The investigation spanned approximately one year and involved the FBI, United States Secret Service, and the U.S. Attorney's Office for the Eastern District of North Carolina.

Privilege review complications

Investigators were required to establish legal privilege walls and review materials through independent counsel because Comey is an attorney, extending the timeline beyond typical cases.

Methodical evidence gathering

Officials emphasized that agents worked methodically to examine electronic devices, documents, and witness statements before presenting findings to the grand jury.

Grand jury issued arrest warrant

The Attorney General clarified that the arrest warrant was issued by the grand jury, not the DOJ, and Comey's initial appearance will be scheduled by a judge in the coming days.

Equal application of law emphasized

Officials repeatedly stated that Comey will receive full due process and that the case is being prosecuted under the same standards applied to dozens of other annual threat cases regardless of the defendant's title.

Intent to be proven at trial

The government will prove criminal intent through witnesses, documents, and the defendant's own statements, rejecting the characterization of the post as protected political speech.