James Comey was charged with allegedly threatening the life and physical integrity of Donald Trump. The 65-year-old former director of the Federal Bureau of Investigation faces two charges filed by a grand jury in North Carolina, according to a statement from the US Department of Justice.
Social media post at centre of case
The charges stem from a photo Comey posted on social media in May 2025, which authorities interpreted as a potential threat against the US President.
The image showed seashells arranged to form the numbers “86 47” in the sand. US officials argued that the numbers could be read as a coded message implying harm, with “47” referring to Trump’s presidency.
Comey rejected the allegations, stating in a video posted on Substack that he is innocent and has confidence in the independence of the federal judiciary.
He previously explained that he did not realise the numbers could be interpreted as violent symbolism and removed the post once concerns were raised.
Justice Department stance
Acting Attorney General Todd Blanche said threats against the US President would not be tolerated, noting that each charge carries a potential prison sentence of up to ten years.
The development comes days after an armed attack at a press event in Washington, where a suspect now faces charges including attempted assassination of the President.
Political reaction and controversy
The threat case has drawn political criticism. Senator Dick Durbin accused the Justice Department of being weaponised to serve political interests, describing the prosecution as an attempt to satisfy the President’s “worst instincts”.
Comey, who was dismissed by Trump in 2017 while the FBI was investigating Russian interference in the 2016 election, has previously faced legal scrutiny, including dismissed perjury-related proceedings.
Ongoing investigation
US federal authorities, including the Secret Service, continue to investigate the alleged threat as part of broader efforts to ensure the protection of senior officials.
The case is expected to remain under close scrutiny as legal proceedings move forward.
Also read: US faces rising concerns over political violence and safety
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