Judge delays Comey arraignment in seashell threat case until January 2027

A federal judge postponed James Comey’s arraignment in the seashells case until January 2027, granting a defense request for more time to prepare while motions to dismiss the indictment remain pending. Judge Louise Flanagan has not set a new trial date, saying she will do so after the arraignment; prosecutors did not oppose the delay. Comey was indicted over a 2025 social media photo of seashells arranged as “86 47,” which prosecutors allege threatened President Donald Trump. Comey denies that the post was a threat, and his attorneys argue the charges should be dismissed, including on grounds that the prosecution is retaliatory and targets protected speech.