Prosecutor Steps Down in Comey ‘Seashell’ Case

A federal prosecutor involved in the Justice Department’s case against former FBI Director James Comey has resigned. A court filing reveals that Assistant U.S. Attorney Timothy Severo will now represent the government in the Eastern District of North Carolina, replacing Matthew Petracca.

The Eastern District U.S. Attorney, Ellis Boyle, requested Petracca’s removal but did not specify the reason. Petracca had joined the case months ago. The case involves Comey facing two federal charges. He could face up to 10 years in prison due to an Instagram post. The post allegedly signaled a threat against President Donald Trump by showing seashells arranged to read ’86 47.’ Authorities accused this of being an expression of intent to harm Trump, the 47th president.

“Threatening the life of the President of the United States is a grave violation of our nation’s laws,” stated acting Attorney General Todd Blanche when the indictment was announced in April.

The grand jury claimed Comey’s act was a violation of law, arguing that it incited potential violence against Trump. FBI Director Kash Patel remarked that as a former FBI Director, Comey should have known the potential repercussions of the post.

The prosecution takes place in North Carolina where the photograph was captured. Boyle stated, “No one is above the law in the Eastern District of North Carolina.”

The case heads to trial in October under U.S. District Judge Louise Wood Flanagan after granting a delay requested by Comey. NBC News reported that Petracca had thought about leaving the Justice Department but decided to remain after a short break.

The charges against Comey might face challenges under the First Amendment according to constitutional law expert Jonathan Turley, who suggested the image might constitute protected speech. Comey has described his prosecution as politically driven and vowed to address what he considers threats to the rule of law.