A senior federal prosecutor in the United States has been removed from his post after reportedly refusing to oversee the controversial criminal case against former FBI director James Comey. This dismissal marks the latest upheaval in a key legal office.
Key Figure Dismissed in Virginia Office
Robert McBride, the second-in-command at the US Attorney's office for the Eastern District of Virginia, was fired according to sources familiar with the internal matter. This office is currently handling high-profile prosecutions involving James Comey and New York Attorney General Letitia James.
McBride, a former federal prosecutor from Kentucky, was appointed late last year. He served as deputy to Lindsey Halligan, a Trump ally who was installed as the acting US Attorney for the district in September 2023.
Refusal to Prosecute and Alleged Ambitions
One source indicated that McBride's dismissal came after he declined to lead the prosecution of James Comey. That case was itself thrown out by a judge in November 2023. The judge ruled that Halligan's appointment was unlawful, a decision the US Justice Department is now appealing.
A second person familiar with events stated that McBride had refused to take on other important cases within the district. Furthermore, it was alleged he had met privately with local judges, apparently with the aim of being appointed to the top prosecutor role himself. This person confirmed that senior officials at the Justice Department supported the decision to fire McBride.
Ongoing Political and Legal Repercussions
The dismissal highlights the continued political turbulence within certain US legal institutions. The Eastern District of Virginia remains a focal point due to its involvement in several contentious cases linked to figures from the previous administration.
When approached for comment, Justice Department spokeswoman Natalie Baldassarre directed inquiries to the Virginia US Attorney's office. That office did not provide an immediate response to requests for comment.
This incident follows a pattern of dismissals and controversial appointments within the office, raising questions about the independence and direction of these significant legal proceedings.
