The indictment of former FBI Director James Corney marks a significant departure from established norms of independence in federal investigations, legal experts warn.

Comey faces charges of false statements and obstruction of a congressional proceeding, stemming from his role in the investigation into ties between Donald Trump’s 2016 campaign and the Russian government.

Comey, was indicted on Thursday has maintained his innocence and plans to contest the charges in court. The indictment represents the first instance of the Trump administration using criminal prosecution against a prominent political adversary, following Trump’s public demands for Comey to be prosecuted.

Since resuming office in January, Trump has utilised his presidential powers to influence law firms, manipulate federal funding for universities and dismiss prosecutors involved in investigations against him. He has also sought charges against various political figures, including former National Security Adviser John Bolton and New York Attorney General Letitia James.

When asked about Comey’s indictment, Trump suggested that more charges could follow, stating, “I think there will be others”.

Legal scholars have expressed concern about the implications of this case. A law professor at New York University Rebecca Roiphe, noted that those opposing the administration now face considerable risks. The Justice Department has characterised the indictment as a move to combat political corruption and misuse of law enforcement.

However, the case against Comey faces several challenges. It is being led by a Trump’s appointee Lindsey Halligan, with no prior prosecutional experience, who personally presented the case to a grand jury. Legal experts point out that prosecutors must demonstrate both that Comey made false statements and that those statements significantly impacted a congressional investigation.

The allegation centers on Comey’s claim to Senator Ted Cruz in 2020 regarding his authorization of an anonymous source for new reports, related to an investigation of Hillary Clinton. Critics argue that the basis for the false statement charge is weak and that Trump’s public comments about Comey could bolster a defense strategy claiming selective prosecution.

The indictment occurs amid ongoing investigations into other figures associated with Trump’s critics, fears that this could signal a broader strategy to utilise criminal law against political opponents. Critics also argue that it undermines decades long Justice Department practices that aims to keep criminal investigations free from political influence.

As Trump campaigns for re-election in 2024, he continues to advocate for retribution against those he believes have wronged him, asserting that the legal system has been weaponised against him.