Trendpills
A federal judge has sharply admonished the Department of Justice for its handling of the criminal case against former FBI Director James Comey, citing a "disturbing pattern of profound investigative missteps" and warning that the issues could jeopardize the entire prosecution.
During a hearing in Virginia, U.S. Magistrate Judge William Fitzpatrick condemned the prosecution's approach, stating, "We're in a bit of a feeling of indict first, investigate second." The judge's rebuke came as he questioned the Justice Department's handling of evidence in the case, where Comey faces two charges related to his alleged mishandling of personal memos, some of which contained classified information after his dismissal in 2017.
The judge's frustration culminated in a significant ruling in favor of Comey's defense team. He ordered federal prosecutors to hand over all grand jury materials, including witness transcripts and all evidence presented to the panel that indicted the former FBI chief. This move grants the defense unprecedented access to the prosecution's foundational evidence, a request often denied in federal criminal cases.
Judge Fitzpatrick explicitly stated that the government's procedural errors could have severe consequences for the case. He warned prosecutors that their actions could ultimately result in the dismissal of the charges against Comey. This stern warning highlights the gravity of the perceived misconduct and places significant pressure on the special counsel's office leading the prosecution. The decision marks a critical turning point in the legal battle, shifting momentum toward the defense as it prepares to challenge the validity of the indictment itself.
