Federal Judge Slams Trump DOJ for “Disturbing” Misconduct in James Comey Prosecution – Grand Jury Transcripts Ordered Released
U.S. Magistrate Judge William Fitzpatrick described a “disturbing pattern of profound investigative missteps” and accused Trump-appointed U.S. Attorney Lindsey Halligan of making “fundamental misstatements of the law” while rushing to indict Comey just days before the statute of limitations expired.
Key Bombshells from the Judge’s Ruling
- Trump-appointed prosecutor went to grand jury alone after career prosecutors refused, saying there was insufficient evidence
- Halligan allegedly told grand jurors they could indict based on “better evidence” that would appear later at trial — a direct violation of legal standards
- FBI agent who testified had previously reviewed privileged attorney-client material and should have been walled off
- DOJ reused old seized evidence without new warrants
- Grand jury may have never actually voted on the final version of the indictment
Judge’s Exact Words
“The procedural and substantive irregularities… may rise to the level of government misconduct resulting in prejudice to Mr. Comey.”
— U.S. Magistrate Judge William Fitzpatrick, Nov 17, 2025
Broader Pattern of Trump “Revenge Prosecutions”
The Comey case is just the latest in a string of controversial 2025 indictments targeting Trump’s perceived enemies:
| Target | Charges | Status (Nov 17, 2025) |
|---|---|---|
| James Comey | Lying to Congress | Grand jury misconduct exposed – possible dismissal |
| Letitia James (NY AG) | Mortgage fraud | Motion to dismiss filed today citing “outrageous government conduct” |
| Lisa Cook (Fed Governor) | Mortgage fraud probe | Lawyers demand case be dropped |
What Happens Next?
- District Judge Michael Nachmanoff has temporarily paused the release order
- Full ruling expected within days
- Legal experts say the case now has a very high chance of dismissal
Why This Is a Massive Blow to Trump’s DOJ
If upheld, this ruling would:
- Expose exactly how the Comey indictment was obtained
- Set precedent to unravel other politically driven cases
- Deal a major embarrassment to Trump’s “retribution” agenda just weeks into his second term
