Former FBI Director James Comey is facing a new federal indictment after prosecutors say a controversial social media post featuring seashells arranged as “86 47” amounted to a threat against President Donald Trump.
According to reports, the indictment was filed in North Carolina’s Eastern District on April 28, 2026. Prosecutors allegedly argue the message violated federal threat statutes, claiming the numbers were intended as a coded reference to harming the 47th president of the United States.
The phrase “86” is often used slang for removing, getting rid of, or rejecting something. Authorities reportedly interpreted the combination “86 47” as a direct threat when paired with Comey’s public platform and visibility.
This marks the second federal indictment involving Comey in less than a year. Earlier charges filed in September 2025 tied to alleged false statements and obstruction connected to 2020 testimony were later dismissed.
The new case reignites a political firestorm around Comey, who has remained a polarizing figure since his years leading the FBI and his high-profile clashes with Trump.
Supporters of the indictment say no one is above the law and coded threats must be taken seriously. Critics argue the prosecution stretches intent and criminalizes ambiguous speech.
The legal fight now centers on one key question: Was it a joke, a message, or a threat?
With a former FBI chief now back in court, this case is expected to trigger massive national debate over free speech, political retaliation, and federal power.