Overview
- Sources say prosecutors could seek new indictments as soon as this week, even as the department has 30 days to signal whether it will appeal the dismissals.
- U.S. District Judge Cameron McGowan Currie dismissed both cases without prejudice after finding interim U.S. attorney Lindsey Halligan lacked lawful authority.
- FBI Director Kash Patel said the FBI and DOJ have numerous options and teased multiple responses shortly after Thanksgiving.
- A key hurdle in any Comey refile is timing: his alleged offenses face a five‑year limitations period that expired Sept. 30, though DOJ is reviewing whether another statute could extend the window.
- Halligan, who presented the cases alone as career prosecutors declined to participate, replaced a predecessor who raised evidentiary concerns; Comey and James pleaded not guilty and have alleged political targeting.