Summary
Lawyers for James Comey and Letitia James are asking a federal judge to dismiss charges against them, arguing that the prosecutor was appointed illegally by President Donald Trump's administration. The prosecutor in question, Lindsey Halligan, was previously part of Trump's legal team and took on her role under contentious circumstances. The court hearing took place in Alexandria, Virginia.
Key Facts
- James Comey and Letitia James are facing criminal charges and want these cases dismissed.
- They argue Lindsey Halligan, the prosecutor, was illegally appointed.
- Halligan was an insurance lawyer and had been part of President Trump's legal team.
- She became an interim US attorney in September without the usual Senate confirmation.
- Halligan's appointment followed the forced resignation of the former US attorney, Erik Siebert.
- Lawyers claim Halligan's lack of proper appointment makes the charges invalid.
- The Department of Justice argues her appointment was legal and any issues are not grounds for dismissal.
- James Comey has been charged with lying to Congress, while Letitia James faces bank fraud charges. Both deny wrongdoing.
