Investigation continues as DOJ takes steps to charge James Comey again over alleged 2016 leak
Filing preserves deadline
A Justice Department spokesperson said the filing was made to preserve the statute of limitations before it expires. The spokesperson described the matter as an ongoing criminal investigation and declined further comment.
Allegations involve 2016 reporting
The department alleges it found evidence that Comey wanted to correct misinformation published by Reuters the previous day. It also alleges that he directed staff to speak with a Times reporter about the Reuters article’s accuracy.
Comey and lawyer reject claims
Fitzgerald said the filing purports to accuse Comey of crimes he did not commit. He said investigators examined the matter twice during the first Trump administration and determined that nobody should be charged.
Comey said he remains innocent and unafraid, and continues to believe in the independent federal judiciary. He called the case an appalling abuse of the Justice Department.
Key points
- The Justice Department’s filing aims to preserve the statute of limitations as its investigation continues.
- The allegations concern national defense information and newspaper reporting in October 2016.
- Comey’s lawyer says the matter was investigated twice during the first Trump administration without charges.