US federal prosecutors have filed an indictment against James Comey, accusing him of threatening President Donald Trump’s life. The Department of Justice alleges that Comey made the threat through a social media post last year featuring seashells arranged to read “86 47.” Prosecutors interpret “86” as slang for “get rid of,” and “47” as a reference to Trump’s second presidency.
Acting Attorney General Todd Blanche stated that threats against any individual are serious, with no tolerance for threats against the president. Comey denied intent to incite violence, claiming he was unaware his post could be seen as threatening. He later removed the post and expressed confidence in the judicial system in an online video.
If convicted, Comey faces up to 10 years in prison. This is the second indictment against the former FBI chief during Trump’s term. Critics have accused the Justice Department of politically motivated cases, a claim officials deny. Senate Judiciary Committee member Dick Durbin criticized the move, suggesting it aims to appease the president. An earlier case was dismissed by a federal judge who ruled the prosecutor’s appointment unlawful.
Comey was fired as FBI director in 2017 while investigating alleged ties between Trump’s campaign and Russia. The probe, led by Robert Mueller, found no evidence of collusion. Trump has repeatedly called this investigation a “witch-hunt.” Comey and Trump have remained outspoken critics of each other.