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New York Attorney General Letitia James expressed her relief and determination following the dismissal of a criminal case against her. On Monday, a federal judge dismissed the charges against James and former FBI Director James Comey, ruling that the prosecutor, Lindsey Halligan, was unlawfully appointed. The judge, Cameron McGowan Currie, found that Halligan, appointed by President Donald Trump, lacked the legal authority to bring charges.
In a statement, James said she was "heartened by today's victory" and grateful for the support she received nationwide. She vowed to continue her work for New Yorkers, undeterred by what she described as "baseless charges." According to NBC News, James' attorney, Abbe Lowell, criticized the appointment of Halligan, calling it a politically motivated move by President Trump.
The judge's ruling dismissed the cases "without prejudice," allowing for the possibility of re-filing. However, CNN reported that the statute of limitations for Comey's charges had expired, making it unlikely for the case to be refiled. Meanwhile, the Justice Department plans to appeal the dismissal.
Former FBI Director Comey also reacted to the dismissal, describing the prosecution as a reflection of the Department of Justice under Trump. He emphasized the importance of an independent judiciary and expressed his belief in his innocence. PBS reported that Comey saw the case as an attempt to use the DOJ against political enemies, which he deemed un-American.
The legal battle continues as the Justice Department, led by Attorney General Pam Bondi, plans to pursue all available legal actions, including an immediate appeal.
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