A newly released federal charging document alleges that former FBI Director James Comey has been charged with making threats against the life of former President Donald Trump. The development marks the second instance within a year in which Comey has faced charges brought during Trump’s administration.
The case was filed in the Eastern District of North Carolina, where a grand jury issued an indictment. A court clerk also issued an arrest warrant in connection with the charges, according to the filing.
Prosecutors claim the case is linked to a social media post in which Comey allegedly arranged seashells to form the numbers “86 47.” The image was reportedly shared publicly and has drawn scrutiny over its interpretation.
According to the charging document, authorities interpreted the numbers as a potential threat directed at the 47th president. Investigators argue that a reasonable person familiar with the context could view the post as expressing intent to harm.
The document states that on or about May 15, 2025, Comey allegedly “knowingly and willfully” made a threat against the president. It further claims the image was posted on Instagram and displayed the numbers in a deliberate arrangement.
Prosecutors have also charged Comey with transmitting a threat in interstate and foreign commerce. The filing alleges that the social media communication contained language or symbolism interpreted as a threat to kill the president.
During a press conference held Tuesday, FBI Director Kash Patel stated that the case had been under investigation for several months. He estimated the inquiry had been ongoing for roughly nine to eleven months.
Comey had previously faced legal challenges in September of the prior year. In that case, he was indicted on charges related to allegedly providing false statements to Congress.
However, that earlier case was dismissed by a federal judge. The ruling found that the interim U.S. attorney responsible for bringing the charges had not been lawfully appointed.
District Court Judge Cameron McGowan Currie wrote that the appointment violated both federal statute and the Constitution’s Appointments Clause. The decision ultimately led to the dismissal of the indictment.
Acting Attorney General Todd Blanche addressed the new charges during a Tuesday statement. He indicated he was not aware whether Comey had been taken into custody following the indictment.
Blanche explained that the process for arrest and arraignment can vary depending on the circumstances of each case. He noted that decisions would be made by prosecutors and the court system.
He also confirmed that a grand jury had issued an arrest warrant, but emphasized that procedural steps differ across cases. As a result, the timing of any arrest may not be immediate.
The timeline for Comey’s arraignment is expected to be determined by the court in the coming days. Officials indicated that further developments will depend on how the legal process unfolds.
At this stage, authorities have not provided additional details about the next steps in the case. Prosecutors and investigators are expected to continue handling the matter as it proceeds through the judicial system.