UPDATE: A critical development has emerged in the ongoing legal battle involving former FBI Director James Comey. During a hearing on Thursday, Judge Cameron McGowan Currie disclosed that portions of the grand jury proceedings related to Comey’s indictment are “missing,” a revelation described as a “bombshell” by legal analyst Glenn Kirschner.
This urgent update raises significant questions about the integrity of the proceedings, as Judge Currie noted that there was no transcription available for the final minutes of deliberation, which took place after 4:28 p.m. on the day of Comey’s indictment. Kirschner drew parallels to the infamous “missing Nixon tapes” from the Watergate scandal, emphasizing the gravity of the situation.
The implications of this revelation are profound. Judge Currie is set to determine the legality of interim United States Attorney Lindsey Halligan, who is prosecuting Comey for alleged false statements and obstructing Congress. This decision is expected before the Thanksgiving holiday, making it a pivotal moment for the ongoing cases.
The Department of Justice has responded, stating there is “no missing time,” claiming that the time in question pertains to jurors deliberating behind closed doors and thus would not be transcribed. However, this assertion has been met with skepticism, particularly following Judge Currie’s comments indicating that Attorney General Pam Bondi could not have fully reviewed the case due to the missing audio.
In a dramatic moment during the hearing, Judge Currie highlighted the absence of a court reporter at a crucial juncture, leading to the discovery of missing records. Kirschner explained the importance of comprehensive documentation, stating, “Every word uttered before the grand jury must be recorded.” This recording includes testimonies, questions, and prosecutors’ explanations, ensuring accountability and transparency in the legal process.
The fallout from this revelation extends beyond the courtroom. Comey’s attorney, Ephraim McDowell, argued that Halligan lacked lawful authority during the grand jury proceedings, raising further concerns about the validity of the charges against his client. “It’s pretty clear that the government was looking to appoint any person before the statute of limitations expired,” McDowell stated in court.
The case has attracted significant attention, especially given the political implications surrounding Comey and his past role in high-profile investigations. Former FBI Director Kash Patel condemned the politicization of law enforcement in a recent statement, emphasizing the need for accountability and restoring public trust in federal institutions.
President Donald Trump also weighed in, praising Halligan in a recent post on Truth Social, framing her as a defender against perceived injustices in the judicial system. His comments reflect the broader political narratives surrounding the case and the ongoing controversies linked to Comey’s tenure at the FBI.
As this situation develops, all eyes will be on Judge Currie’s upcoming decision regarding Halligan’s role and the potential ramifications of the missing grand jury records. Legal experts and observers are closely monitoring these events, as they could significantly impact the trajectory of the case against Comey and the future of similar prosecutions.
Stay tuned for updates as this story unfolds.
