DOJ probes ex-CIA, FBI directors over 2016 Trump-Russia investigation
Former CIA Director John Brennan and former FBI Director James Comey are reportedly under investigation by the Department of Justice for potential criminal actions. The inquiries are connected to a 2016 probe into alleged ties between President Donald Trump and Russia, Fox News reports.
Citing anonymous DOJ sources, the investigation is reportedly examining whether Brennan or Comey committed any illegal acts during the Russia probe, including making false statements to Congress, which is a federal offense.
Ratcliffe referral prompts FBI review
According to Fox News, CIA Director John Ratcliffe has reportedly sent evidence suggesting possible misconduct by Brennan to FBI Director Kash Patel for further review.
The anonymous source told Fox News they could not disclose specific details about the criminal referral Ratcliffe made regarding Brennan. The source did note that “Brennan broke the public’s trust and should face consequences for his actions,” according to the outlet.
Brennan is under investigation following the recent declassification of a review indicating that the 2017 report on Russian interference in the election was rushed and did not follow standard intelligence procedures.
Comey also under scrutiny
DOJ sources also said Comey is under investigation, though details remain undisclosed. Comey led the FBI’s 2016 Trump–Russia probe. Trump dismissed Comey in 2017, appointing Special Counsel Robert Mueller to lead the investigation.
Mueller’s final report did not find sufficient evidence to charge any Trump campaign members with criminal conspiracy related to Russian interference in the 2016 election.
White House response
Straight Arrow News has reached out to the DOJ for comment.
“I am glad to see that the Department of Justice is opening up this investigation,” White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt said while appearing on Fox News.
Ella Rae Greene, Editor In Chief
