‘I am innocent, let’s have a trial': Ex-FBI chief James Comey breaks silence after indictment

The former FBI chief was indicted on two charges— giving a false statement and obstructing a congressional proceeding.

Updated on: Sep 26, 2025, 06:47:49 IST

By HT News Desk

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Former chief of Federal Bureau of Investigation James Comey broke silence after being indicted on two charges on Thursday, saying that he and his family have known for years that “there are costs to standing up to Donald Trump”, however, they could not imagine themselves "living any other way."

FILE - Former FBI director James Comey said in his statement that his "heart is broken for the department of justice" but he has "great confidence in the federal judiciary system." (File/AP)

“We will not live on our knees, and you shouldn't either,” Comey said in a video statement released on his Instagram profile.

He added that someone close to him recently told him that "fear is the tool of a tyrant but I'm not afraid, I hope you aren't either."

Also read: Trump announces 100% tariff on drugs, Indian pharma exports at risk

“I hope instead you're engaged, you're paying attention, and you will vote like your beloved country depends upon it, which it does,” Comey said.

“My heart is broken for the department of justice but I have great confidence in the federal judiciary system and I am innocent. So let's have a trial and keep the faith,” he added.

Also read: James Comey going to jail? What obstruction, perjury charges and indictment exactly mean

This statement comes as the former FBI chief's son-in-law Troy Edwards resigned as a federal prosecutor to 'uphold' constitutional oath after Comey's indictment on Thursday (local time), reported news agency Associated Press.

The former FBI chief was indicted on two charges, according to the US justice department — giving a false statement and obstructing a congressional proceeding.

Reacting to James Comey's indictment, Trump hailed the decision as “justice for America” and called Comey “one of the worst human beings this Country has ever been exposed to”.

“JUSTICE IN AMERICA! One of the worst human beings this Country has ever been exposed to is James Comey, the former Corrupt Head of the FBI. Today he was indicted by a Grand Jury on two felony counts for various illegal and unlawful acts. He has been so bad for our Country, for so long, and is now at the beginning of being held responsible for his crimes against our Nation. MAKE AMERICA GREAT AGAIN!” Trump said in a post on Truth Social.

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HT News Desk
Follow the latest breaking news, major developments and agenda-setting stories from India and around the world with the newsdesk at Hindustan Times. Operating round the clock, the desk brings together experienced editors, reporters and correspondents to deliver fast, accurate and contextual reporting across subjects that influence public policy, governance, business, society and international affairs. The HT News Desk covers politics, elections, government policies, the economy, business and markets, science and technology, the environment, law and order, infrastructure, education, climate issues and geopolitics, while closely tracking developments across states, institutions and global capitals. The team also leads coverage of major breaking news events, policy announcements, court proceedings, natural disasters, public emergencies and significant international developments. Reports published by the newsdesk are based on information gathered from reporters on the ground, official statements, government agencies, court records, regulatory filings, recognised institutions and other authoritative sources. Stories undergo editorial scrutiny and verification processes to ensure accuracy, fairness and relevance, and are updated as events evolve and additional information becomes available. Whether covering a key political decision in New Delhi, an economic policy shift affecting millions, a landmark court ruling or a major global event, the HT News Desk aims to provide readers with reliable, fact-based journalism that delivers not only the latest developments but also the context and analysis needed to understand their wider implications.Read More

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