A federal grand jury in Alexandria, Virginia has indicted former FBI Director James Comey on charges of making a false statement and obstruction related to his testimony before the U.S. Senate Judiciary Committee on September 30, 2020.
Lindsey Halligan, U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of Virginia, announced the indictment. “The charges as alleged in this case represent a breach of the public trust at an extraordinary level,” said U.S. Attorney Halligan. “The balance of power is a bedrock principle of our democracy, and it relies upon accountability and a forthright presentation of facts from executive leadership to congressional oversight. Any intent to avoid, evade, prevent, or obstruct compliance is a violation of professional responsibility and, most importantly, the law.”
If convicted, Comey could face up to five years in prison; however, sentences for federal crimes are usually less than the maximum penalty allowed by law. Sentencing will be determined by a federal district court judge based on the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other legal considerations.
The U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Virginia has made additional information about this case available online through its website as well as through PACER under Case No. 1:25-cr-272.
Authorities emphasized that an indictment is only an accusation and that Comey is presumed innocent unless proven guilty in court.
