What to know about James Comey's indictment and what happens next

September 26, 2025

Former FBI Director James Comey has been charged with perjury and obstruction of justice by the US Department of Justice over testimony he gave to Congress in 2020 regarding media leaks. The indictment alleges Comey misled the Senate by claiming he had not authorized leaks to the media about FBI investigations, potentially contradicting statements made by his former deputy Andrew McCabe. The charges come nearly a decade after Comey's controversial handling of Hillary Clinton's email investigation during the 2016 election and his subsequent firing by President Trump in 2017 while leading the Russia investigation.

Who is affected

James Comey, former FBI Director
The US Department of Justice officials handling the case
The Biden administration facing scrutiny over the timing and independence of the charges
Donald Trump, who has celebrated the charges against Comey
The American public's confidence in judicial independence

What action is being taken

The US Department of Justice is prosecuting Comey on charges of making false statements and obstruction of justice
Comey is maintaining his innocence and preparing to defend himself in court
Comey is scheduled to appear in court for arraignment on October 9
Trump is publicly celebrating the charges against Comey on social media
House Democratic leader Hakeem Jeffries is denouncing the charges as "a disgraceful attack on the rule of law"

Why it matters

The charges resurrect questions about Comey's controversial role in the 2016 election and his handling of both the Clinton email and Russia investigations
The case raises concerns about potential political influence over the Department of Justice, with critics arguing it represents weaponization of law enforcement against political opponents
The indictment was filed just days before the five-year statute of limitations would have expired, and shortly after Trump urged prosecution of his opponents
The case highlights ongoing tensions between maintaining judicial independence and addressing allegations of misconduct by high-ranking officials
The prosecution of a former FBI Director on perjury charges has significant implications for public trust in law enforcement institutions

What's next

Comey will appear in court for arraignment on October 9 where charges will be read and he will enter a plea
The case will proceed to trial after the arraignment
Trump has suggested more charges may be coming against other political figures, specifically mentioning Democratic Senator Adam Schiff and New York Attorney General Letitia James

Read full article from source: BBC