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Judge dismisses cases against ex-FBI director Comey and NY attorney general James

November 24, 2025

A federal judge dismissed criminal cases against former FBI Director James Comey and New York Attorney General Letitia James, determining that the prosecutor appointed to charge them was illegally selected for the position. Judge Cameron Currie ruled that Lindsey Halligan, a former White House aide chosen by Trump who lacked prosecution experience, was appointed after the legally allowed timeframe had expired for interim attorney designations. Both defendants had maintained their innocence and characterized the charges as politically motivated retribution from President Trump, who has publicly attacked them on social media.

Who is affected

  • Former FBI Director James Comey (charged with false statements and obstruction of justice)
  • New York Attorney General Letitia James (charged with bank fraud and false statements)
  • Lindsey Halligan (former White House aide whose appointment as prosecutor was ruled unlawful)
  • Erik Siebert (interim US attorney who resigned under pressure)
  • President Donald Trump (political adversary of both defendants)
  • The Justice Department (responsible for the prosecutions)

What action is being taken

  • The Justice Department is appealing the dismissal of both cases
  • New York Attorney General Letitia James is continuing to fight for New Yorkers in her official capacity

Why it matters

  • This ruling highlights significant concerns about the politicization of the justice system and the potential abuse of prosecutorial power to target political adversaries. The case demonstrates the importance of judicial oversight in ensuring that legal appointments follow proper statutory procedures, preventing the executive branch from circumventing legal safeguards. The situation raises questions about separation of powers and whether criminal prosecution can be weaponized for political purposes, particularly when a president publicly demands charges against specific individuals who have investigated or prosecuted him previously.

What's next

  • The Justice Department will appeal the dismissal "very soon" according to White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt
  • The department could potentially refile the cases at a later date since they were dismissed without prejudice

Read full article from source: BBC