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Comey Faces Trial Over Alleged Trump Threat, Defends Speech

4/30/2026

Summary

Story summary

Former FBI Director James Comey appeared in Alexandria, Virginia court on April 29, 2026 after an indictment alleged he threatened U.S. President Donald Trump.
Legal analysts say the “86 47” shell image is ambiguous, likely protected speech, creating evidentiary hurdles and noting that Supreme Court “true threat” precedent raises First Amendment concerns.
Defense attorney Patrick Fitzgerald will argue prosecution is vindictive and Comey should have known slang meaning of “86.”

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Story summary

Former FBI Director James Comey appeared in Alexandria, Virginia court on April 29, 2026 after an indictment alleged he threatened U.S. President Donald Trump.
Legal analysts say the “86 47” shell image is ambiguous, likely protected speech, creating evidentiary hurdles and noting that Supreme Court “true threat” precedent raises First Amendment concerns.
Defense attorney Patrick Fitzgerald will argue prosecution is vindictive and Comey should have known slang meaning of “86.”