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Comey Defense Seeks Dismissal Over Wrong Threat Charge

9/2/2026

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Summary

Story summary

Comey's lawyers argue the indictment should be dismissed because prosecutors charged him under the wrong law.
They contend the phrase “86 47” means “discard” rather than “kill,” making it nonviolent.
The defense cites Fourth Circuit United States v. White, ruling similar statements are political hyperbole, not true threats.
They argue incitement requires a specific charge, which the current threats indictment lacks.

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Story summary

Comey's lawyers argue the indictment should be dismissed because prosecutors charged him under the wrong law.
They contend the phrase “86 47” means “discard” rather than “kill,” making it nonviolent.
The defense cites Fourth Circuit United States v. White, ruling similar statements are political hyperbole, not true threats.
They argue incitement requires a specific charge, which the current threats indictment lacks.