The former director of the FBI, James Comey was on Thursday criminally charged for making false statements and obstruction of justice.
US Attorney for the Eastern District of Virginia Lindsey Halligan announced the charges, and said Comey could face up to five years behind bars if convicted.
US President Donald Trump hailed the indictment on his Truth Social platform, claiming Comey “is now at the beginning of being held responsible for his crimes against our Nation.”
US Attorney General Pam Bondi said the indictment “reflects this Department of Justice’s commitment to holding those who abuse positions of power accountable for misleading the American people.” FBI Director Kash Patel also said “no one is above the law.”
In a video posted on Instagram, Comey maintained his innocence.
“My heart is broken for the Department of Justice, but I have great confidence in the federal judicial system, and I am innocent, so let’s have a trial and keep the faith,” Comey said.
Comey said that “my family and I have known for years that there are cost(s) to standing up to Donald Trump, but I couldn’t imagine living any other way.”
Other members of Comey’s family have been targeted by the Department of Justice in recent months. The Justice Department dismissed Comey’s daughter, federal prosecutor Maurene Comey, in July without cause.
Comey’s son-in law Troy Edwards, stepped down from his position at the Justice Department after Comey’s indictment. (DW)
