Former FBI Director James Comey faces fresh criminal charges over alleged national security leaks

The United States Department of Justice has initiated a third criminal case against former FBI Director James Comey, accusing him of leaking sensitive national security information in 2016.

According to Reuters, court documents made public Monday revealed allegations that Comey transmitted and conspired to transmit national defence information while serving as FBI director.

Prosecutors alleged that Comey directed the disclosure of sensitive information to a New York Times reporter in October 2016.

The charges were filed under seal on October 5, shortly before the expiration of the 10-year statute of limitations.

However, prosecutors filed a criminal information rather than securing a grand jury indictment, a procedure Comey’s lawyers are challenging.

Comey denied wrongdoing, describing the prosecution as an abuse of the Justice Department.

“Nothing’s changed with me. I’m still innocent,” he declared.

His attorney, Patrick Fitzgerald, also rejected the allegations and requested dismissal.

The latest development follows two previous criminal cases brought against Comey under President Donald Trump’s administration.

One case involving alleged false statements to Congress was dismissed, while another concerning an alleged social media threat against Trump remains pending.