Summary Acting Attorney General Todd Blanche said threats against any individual are serious, adding that threats against the president would not be tolerated
(Web Desk) – US federal prosecutors have filed a second indictment against James Comey, accusing him of threatening the life of President Donald Trump, reported Financial Times on Wednesday.
According to court documents, the Department of Justice alleges that Comey made the threat through a social media post last year showing seashells arranged to read “86 47.” Prosecutors interpret “86” as slang meaning “to get rid of” and “47” as a reference to Trump’s second presidency. He has also been charged with transmitting a threat against a US president across state lines.
Acting Attorney General Todd Blanche said threats against any individual are serious, adding that threats against the president would not be tolerated.
Comey denied any intent to incite violence, saying he was unaware the image could be interpreted as threatening. He later removed the post and, in an online video, maintained his innocence and expressed confidence in the judicial system.
If convicted, Comey could face up to 10 years in prison.
The case marks the second indictment against the former FBI chief during Trump’s current term. Critics have accused the Justice Department of pursuing politically motivated cases, a claim officials have rejected.
Senate Judiciary Committee member Dick Durbin criticised the move, suggesting it reflects efforts to appease the president. Meanwhile, an earlier case against Comey—related to alleged disclosure of sensitive information and statements to Congress—was dismissed by a federal judge, who ruled the prosecutor’s appointment unlawful.
Comey was dismissed as FBI director in 2017 while overseeing an investigation into alleged links between Trump’s campaign and Russia. The probe was later led by Robert Mueller, who found no evidence of collusion. Trump has repeatedly criticised the investigation, calling it a “witch-hunt.”
The two have since remained outspoken critics of each other, with Comey previously describing Trump’s leadership as driven by personal loyalty, while Trump has labelled Comey one of the worst FBI directors in history.
