The prosecution of former FBI Director James Comey has hit another hurdle.

 

The Justice Department acknowledged in court Wednesday a possible lapse in how the case was presented to a grand jury.

 

Associated Press reporter Eric Tucker was there in the courthouse and said the revelation that the full grand jury didn't review a copy of the final indictment came during a hearing where Comey’s lawyers asked a judge to throw out the case on grounds the government is being vindictive.

 

“It really does sort of further imperil a prosecution that's already been subject to multiple challenges, including to the legitimacy of the prosecutor who brought the case, Lindsey Halligan,” Tucker said.

 

Comey has pleaded not guilty to charges accusing him of making a false statement and obstructing Congress.

 

President Donald Trump's Justice Department says Comey was indicted because he broke the law, not because Trump ordered it.

 

“We expect to learn by Thanksgiving whether Halligan will remain at the top of the case or whether the case will in fact be dismissed as a result of an illegal appointment,” Tucker said.