Previous FBI Head James Comey Enters Not Guilty Plea to Charges of Misleading Lawmakers
Former Federal Bureau of Investigation head James Comey has denied the charges to making false statements to lawmakers and obstructing a congressional proceeding.
The former director's legal representative filed the answer acting as his counsel in a federal court in Alexandria, Virginia on Wednesday.
The defense lawyer stated he would try to have the case dismissed for various factors including that his client, a opponent of Donald Trump, was being targeted.
The former director was formally accused soon after Trump urged his top legal official to proceed against him.
Court Developments
During the hearing on mid-week, Comey's lawyer the legal representative told the court they intended to submit several motions to dismiss the legal matter before a trial, arguing the legal action was spiteful and that a government lawyer was wrongfully appointed to handle the proceedings.
Mr Comey's legal matter was first overseen by a Virginia prosecutor, who stepped down under scrutiny from Donald Trump after his investigation into another rival - New York Attorney General Letitia James - was unable to file indictments.
Courtroom Atmosphere
James Comey appeared in good spirits as he came into the legal venue on mid-week, chatting with his lawyers and sharing humor. He was supported by his wife, Patrice Failor and child Maureen, a US lawyer who the previous administration recently fired.
Upon hearing to the magistrate state his rights and the pair of allegations against him in legal proceedings on mid-week, James Comey was asked if he understood the accusations.
"Absolutely your honour. Thank you very much," he informed the proceedings.
Historical Information
Mr Comey was the head of the FBI from 2013 to 2017 and was fired about several months into Donald Trump's first term as commander-in-chief. At the time, the director was leading an examination into foreign election meddling and whether there were any connections between the Russian government and the election effort.
During his tenure, the director caused a negative reaction from Democrats when he declared just immediately preceding the national vote that he was investigating political contender the candidate's use of a personal email system. Legal actions against Hillary Clinton were not pursued, causing criticism from the Republican party as well.
Ongoing Accusations
Government attorneys claim James Comey gave untrue statements to the legislature during a congressional hearing in recent years when he was being examined about both the Clinton investigation as well as the foreign influence inquiry. They claim he deceived the legislative body by stating he had not authorized someone at the agency to leak to journalistic entities data about the FBI investigations.
Legal representatives also allege James Comey of "improperly attempting to affect, hinder and slow" the legislative group by making false statements to it.
Public Statements
Via social media Mr Comey published to his online platform after he was indicted, he declared he was wrongly accused and accused Donald Trump of conducting himself like a "autocrat".
"My family and I have understood for considerable time that there are ramifications to opposing the former president," he commented. "We choose not to live on our kneeling."
"I am not guilty," he continued. "Therefore proceed with a court case."
The accusations against the former director emerged after the former president shared on online platforms insisting on his attorney general, Pam Bondi, charge Mr Comey and additional individuals.
Related Developments
- Previous Federal Bureau of Investigation chief James Comey charged on dual counts
- Which accusations does previous chief James Comey face?