James Comey Indictment: What Charges the Ex-FBI Chief Could Face Amid Leak Probe

Former FBI Director James Comey is facing renewed scrutiny as a potential perjury indictment looms. Prosecutors in the Eastern District of Virginia are reviewing whether to charge him before a key legal deadline on September 30, 2025. The case focuses on statements Comey made to Congress in 2020 about the FBI’s Russia investigation and the leak of internal memos.

This development has sparked wide attention in U.S. political and legal circles. CNN, citing people familiar with the matter, reported that the probe centers on whether Comey lied under oath during his September 30, 2020, testimony. Federal law gives prosecutors five years from the date of an alleged false statement to bring perjury charges, making this month the last opportunity for action.

Details of the James Comey Indictment Investigation

The potential charges relate to Comey’s testimony about how the FBI handled allegations of Russian interference in the 2016 U.S. election and whether he authorized leaking information to the press. At the time, Comey defended his actions, saying he did not authorize any leak. But federal investigators have revisited those claims as part of a leak probe tied to classified memos he kept about meetings with former President Donald Trump.

The Justice Department’s inspector general previously criticized Comey in 2019 for violating FBI policy by keeping and sharing some memos but stopped short of recommending criminal charges. Those memos included sensitive information, and questions have lingered over whether any of the content was classified and improperly disclosed. Prosecutors are now examining whether Comey’s 2020 congressional testimony accurately reflected his role in those disclosures.

MSNBC reporter Ken Dilanian said sources believe at least one possible charge could accuse Comey of lying to Congress about authorizing leaks. Perjury before Congress is a federal crime that can carry fines and prison time if proven. However, as of now, no formal indictment has been filed, and the case remains under review.

Potential Impact and Political Reactions

This investigation could reignite debates over the FBI’s handling of politically sensitive cases. Comey’s firing by Donald Trump in 2017, his public statements about the Russia probe, and his release of memos have long been flashpoints in U.S. politics. An indictment could become a major talking point in the lead-up to the 2026 elections and further polarize opinions about the FBI’s independence.

Legal experts say perjury cases tied to congressional testimony are rare and hard to prove, as prosecutors must show the statements were knowingly false and material to the inquiry. Supporters of Comey argue the investigation is politically motivated, while critics believe it underscores the need for accountability in high-level law enforcement positions.

As the September 30 deadline approaches, all eyes remain on the Justice Department’s next move. If charges are filed, the James Comey indictment could become one of the most high-profile legal battles involving a former FBI chief in recent history.

FYI (keeping you in the loop)-

Q1: What is the James Comey indictment about?

It concerns possible perjury charges over his 2020 testimony on the FBI’s Russia investigation and leaks of internal memos.

Q2: When could James Comey be charged?

The legal deadline to bring charges is September 30, 2025. Prosecutors must decide before then.

Q3: What happens if Comey is indicted?

He would face formal charges, potential court proceedings, and possible penalties if convicted.

Q4: Has Comey denied the allegations?

Yes. Comey has repeatedly said he did not authorize any leaks and stands by his 2020 testimony.

Q5: Why does this matter now?

The five-year statute of limitations for perjury expires this month, forcing prosecutors to act or drop the case.