Judge Dismisses Comey, Letitia James Indictments Over Illegal Prosecutor Appointment

A federal judge has thrown out the criminal indictments against former FBI Director James Comey and New York Attorney General Letitia James after ruling that the prosecutor who brought the cases was unlawfully appointed.

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Judge Cameron McGowan Currie found that Lindsey Halligan, the interim U.S. attorney who signed and presented both indictments, did not have legal authority to serve in the role under federal appointment rules. Because Halligan lacked valid authority, all actions stemming from her appointment—including the Comey and James cases—were ruled invalid.

The indictments against Comey accused him of making false statements and obstructing a congressional proceeding. James faced bank-fraud and false-statement charges related to a real-estate transaction. Both cases were dismissed without prejudice, meaning prosecutors could attempt to refile them in the future under a legally appointed official.

Halligan, a former White House aide with no prior prosecutorial experience, was installed to lead the U.S. Attorney’s Office after her predecessor reportedly declined to pursue the indictments. The ruling deals a major setback to the Justice Department’s push to target high-profile political figures.

Letitia James called the outcome a “victory,” while Comey has not yet issued a public statement. The Justice Department has not announced whether it will appeal the decision or seek new charges.

The dismissal raises broader questions about the administration’s appointment process and whether other cases handled by Halligan could face similar legal challenges.