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Federal judge orders release of grand jury records in Comey case
A US federal judge ruled on Monday that alleged "investigative missteps" and "government misconduct" may have compromised the Trump administration's criminal prosecution of former FBI Director James Comey, ordering the Justice Department to release grand jury transcripts, evidence, and audio recordings to the defense team.
Judge flags prosecutor's statements as problematic
In a 24-page opinion, Judge William Fitzpatrick identified at least two statements made by prosecutor Lindsey Halligan to grand jurors that he called "fundamental misstatements of the law." One assertion, he noted, improperly suggested the grand jury could rely on evidence beyond what was formally presented-hinting at "better evidence" the government might introduce later at trial.
The judge described the remedy-granting Comey's team full access to grand jury materials-as "extraordinary" but necessary to "protect the rights of the accused" under the case's "unique circumstances."
Politically charged prosecution
Comey, who was fired by Donald Trump in 2017 amid his investigation into Russian election interference, faces charges of making false statements and obstruction of justice. The indictment, secured in September 2025, stems from allegations he misled Congress during a 2020 hearing about the probe.
Critics note the case gained momentum only after Trump publicly called for Comey's prosecution and appointed Halligan-who bypassed Senate confirmation-as interim US attorney. Previous prosecutors had declined to pursue charges, citing insufficient evidence.
Defense challenges prosecutor's authority
Comey's legal team has argued that Halligan's rapid appointment-she secured an indictment three days after taking the role-was legally flawed. They've also questioned the integrity of the grand jury process, prompting Monday's ruling.
Next steps
The Justice Department has appealed the order, setting up a potential legal battle over the materials' release. Comey, who has pleaded not guilty, is scheduled for further proceedings in a Virginia federal court.
"The court recognizes this is an extraordinary remedy... [but] is necessary to fully protect the rights of the accused."
Judge William Fitzpatrick, US District Court
