Following the raid on Bolton’s home, a Maryland grand jury has been hearing evidence for several weeks, and acting U.S. attorneys reportedly believe they have enough to indict. Meanwhile, DOJ oversight bodies, defense lawyers, and Capitol Hill are watching to see how the DOJ will navigate public optics and political backlash.
Any indictment is likely to include counts under the Espionage Act or unauthorized retention/possession of national defense information, though the exact counts remain under wraps.
The Perp Walk Controversy: Why Comey’s Gentle Treatment Fueled Fury — And What It Means Now
When James Comey was indicted in late September on counts of lying to Congress and obstruction of a congressional proceeding, many in the public and political class reacted angrily —Critics noted that Comey was summoned to court, permitted to walk in voluntarily (through side doors), and did not appear in handcuffs or in visible restraints. There was no public “perp walk”, and no mugshot made available.
Many in conservative and accountability circles viewed that as evidence of a double standard: insiders and powerful former officials get special treatment, while lesser-known defendants routinely face public spectacle.
