The U.S. Secret Service is investigating former FBI Director James Comey’s recent Instagram post after several Trump administration officials raised concerns.
Comey posted a photo of seashells on a beach that appeared to form the numbers “86 47.” He captioned the post, “cool shell formation on my beach walk.”
Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem publicly expressed concern over the post. She called the image “deeply inappropriate” and urged officials to take it seriously.
Trump allies also condemned the post. They accused Comey of encouraging violence and demanded a formal investigation.
The Secret Service confirmed it began examining the post. Agents are determining whether the post contains a credible threat to the former president.
Comey has not responded publicly to the allegations. He has remained silent as the investigation moves forward.
Trump has not issued a statement, but his son, Donald Trump Jr., denounced the post on social media. He called it “a disgusting attempt to incite violence.”
Comey served as FBI Director from 2013 to 2017. President Trump fired him during an investigation into Russian election interference.
