The U.S. Department of Justice has filed criminal indictments against former National Security Adviser John Bolton and former FBI Director James Comey. Bolton faces 18 counts related to the alleged mishandling and transmission of classified national security information, while Comey has been charged with making false statements to Congress and obstructing a congressional investigation. The cases represent an unusual instance of two former high-level officials being prosecuted by the government they once led.
The indictments have sparked debate among legal experts and lawmakers, who question the clarity and scope of the charges. In Comey’s case, the indictment provides few specifics about the alleged false statements or obstructive actions, leaving the details of the government’s case largely unclear. Meanwhile, Bolton’s charges focus on the handling of classified materials, highlighting ongoing concerns about the protection of sensitive national security information.
Specifically, prosecutors allege that Bolton shared “diary-like entries” derived from his notes as National Security Advisor, with unauthorized individuals — identified as his wife and daughter — and that he retained classified documents and other materials at his home and on personal devices after leaving government service.
Bolton has pleaded not guilty and asserts his conduct was lawful. He claims the materials in question were personal diaries, unclassified, and known to the FBI. He also claims the case...
The U.S. Department of Justice has filed criminal indictments against former National Security Adviser John Bolton and former FBI Director James Comey. Bolton faces 18 counts related to the allege...