A US judge has dismissed criminal charges against former FBI Director James Comey and New York Attorney General Letitia James, ruling that the prosecutor who brought the charges was unlawfully appointed.
Judge Cameron Currie stated that Lindsey Halligan, who was appointed by Trump to pursue the charges against his political adversaries, was not eligible for the position.
Both Comey and James have maintained their innocence, asserting that these prosecutions were politically motivated.
In response, the White House indicated that the facts of the indictments against Comey and James have not changed and this will not be the final word on this matter.
President Trump has previously criticized Comey and James, claiming they were guilty as hell and demanding swift justice.
In her ruling, Judge Currie noted that Halligan, having never prosecuted a case before, was not given the authority to bring charges to the grand jury.
All actions flowing from Ms Halligan's defective appointment, including securing and signing Mr Comey's indictment, were unlawful exercises of executive power and are hereby set aside, the judge wrote.
Halligan replaced Erik Siebert, who resigned under pressure to file charges against Comey and James.
Judge Currie highlighted that Halligan's appointment violated the governing statutes and that her service since September 22 was unlawful.
The dismissal of the cases was made without prejudice, meaning the justice department could choose to refile the case later.
Comey expressed his relief at the ruling, citing the case as a result of malevolence and incompetence, while suggesting that Trump might pursue further attacks against him.
James also expressed gratitude for the ruling, asserting her commitment to serving New Yorkers despite the baseless allegations against her.
Following the dismissal, White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt announced plans to appeal the judge's ruling, reiterating the administration's view that Halligan was legally appointed.
