Judge Orders DOJ to Release Key Transcripts in Comey Case

URGENT UPDATE: U.S. District Court Judge Cameron McGowan Currie has issued a critical order demanding the Department of Justice (DOJ) release complete grand jury transcripts related to the indictment of former FBI Director James Comey. This unprecedented move comes after the DOJ failed to include remarks from interim U.S. Attorney Lindsey Halligan, raising significant questions about the validity of the indictment process.

In a ruling delivered Tuesday, Judge Currie expressed her dissatisfaction with the DOJ’s handling of the transcript, noting it lacked important statements made by Halligan during grand jury proceedings. The judge had initially requested these transcripts last month following Comey’s claims that Halligan’s appointment was invalid, which could undermine the entire indictment.

Judge Currie stated, “This court has reviewed the transcript and finds it fails to include remarks made by the indictment signer both before and after the testimony of the sole witness.” She emphasized the necessity of including Halligan’s comments to assess her involvement accurately. The judge has now given the DOJ 24 hours to provide a complete transcript that includes all statements made by Halligan, both prior and subsequent to witness testimonies.

Legal expert Joyce Vance highlighted the unusual nature of the court’s request, stating, “It is rare for a court to ask for disclosure or a prosecutor’s comments in the grand jury,” adding that such requests are “never good news for the government.” This development raises serious implications for the integrity of the indictment process against Comey, as it questions the qualifications of those involved.

As the clock ticks down on the DOJ’s deadline, the stakes are high. The outcome of this case could have profound implications for legal standards surrounding grand jury procedures and the accountability of federal prosecutors.

Stay tuned for further updates on this developing story as details unfold and the DOJ responds to the judge’s demands. This situation is rapidly evolving, and its impact on the legal community and public trust in federal investigations cannot be overstated.