Comey seeks dismissal of Trump threat case, says seashell photo is protected speech

Published Jul 27, 03:35 PM UTC

Former FBI Director James Comey has formally asked a federal judge to dismiss his indictment on a charge of threatening to kill President Donald Trump. Comey's lawyers argue that an Instagram photo he posted of seashells spelling out the number '86 47' does not constitute a 'true threat' and is protected free speech under the First Amendment. They contend the numerical phrase is a well-known political slogan expressing opposition to the president. The case stems from a photo taken on a North Carolina beach. The article is presented as breaking news with updates to follow.