Former FBI Director James Comey was placed under intense surveillance by the U.S. Secret Service after posting a mysterious “86 47” message on Instagram, triggering a sweeping federal investigation and criminal probes into him and ex-CIA Director John Brennan.
At a Glance
- The Secret Service tailed Comey using unmarked vehicles and cell phone tracking.
- The “86 47” Instagram post allegedly triggered the surveillance.
- The Department of Justice opened criminal investigations into Comey and Brennan.
- NBC News and New York Times journalists detailed the developments publicly.
- The probes represent a rare federal escalation against former intelligence chiefs.
Surveillance Triggered by Cryptic Post
Sources told The New York Times that Comey’s seemingly cryptic Instagram post reading “86 47” prompted immediate Secret Service attention. Within hours, agents were trailing him covertly and monitoring his communications. The post’s meaning remains unclear, but insiders suggest it may reference classified or politically sensitive material.
The Secret Service’s heightened activity on a former FBI Director is unprecedented. Meanwhile, DOJ prosecutors have launched criminal probes targeting both Comey and former CIA Director John Brennan as part of a broader inquiry into alleged leaks and misconduct.
Watch a report: Former FBI Director under investigation by DHS, Secret Service for …
Legal Storm Engulfs Former Intelligence Chiefs
NBC News correspondent Ken Dilanian, New York Times investigative reporter Michael Schmidt, and The Atlantic’s Ashley Parker discussed the escalating situation on MSNBC. They highlighted the legal risks faced by Comey and Brennan, emphasizing that DOJ’s probe signals serious concern over potential breaches of protocol or national security.
The criminal investigations remain largely confidential but are believed to be probing unauthorized disclosures and coordination with media outlets. Both Comey and Brennan
have yet to publicly comment on the allegations.
This unprecedented federal crackdown on former top intelligence officials raises questions about political pressures influencing justice and the boundaries of surveillance and investigation into former government servants.
National Security and Political Fallout
Observers warn that the fallout could extend far beyond Comey and Brennan. The investigations risk further politicizing intelligence agencies and exacerbating partisan divides in Washington.
Legal experts debate whether such probes could chill whistleblowers or deter public officials from speaking out on sensitive matters. The DOJ’s balancing act—between national security and accountability—now faces its toughest test yet.
With the investigation ongoing and public scrutiny mounting, the nation watches closely as one of the most explosive probes in recent intelligence history unfolds.
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Author: Editor
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