A storm of criticism has erupted following an Instagram post made by former FBI Director James Comey, in which he shared an image of seashells arranged to form the numbers “86-47.” While the caption read “Cool shell formation on my beach walk,” the backlash was swift and fierce, with many—including President Donald Trump and his allies—interpreting the post as a coded call for violence, potentially referencing an assassination attempt on the 47th President of the United States.

To most Americans, the number “86” is known as slang for “to eliminate” or “get rid of” something, particularly in the food service industry. However, in law enforcement slang, “86” can carry far darker implications, often used as shorthand for death or killing. The number “47,” paired with that, is widely seen as a reference to Donald Trump, who is  the the 47th President. Given Comey’s background as FBI Director, critics argue that ignorance of the implications is implausible.

President Trump responded sharply in a televised interview, saying, “He knew exactly what that meant. A child knows what that meant. If you’re the FBI director and you don’t know what that meant, that meant assassination.” Trump declined to specify what he believed should happen next, deferring to Attorney General Pam Bondi and others, but called Comey a “dirty cop” with a history of misconduct.

Comey has since deleted the post and issued a statement claiming he was unaware of the violent connotation behind the numbers. “I didn’t realize some folks associated those numbers with violence. It’s never occurred to me, but I oppose violence of any kind, so I took the post down,” he wrote.

However, that explanation has not satisfied many. Don Jr. posted, “Just James Comey casually calling for my dad to be murdered. This is who the Dem media worships—demented.” Others pointed out the unlikelihood that someone of Comey’s experience would unknowingly stumble upon such a loaded phrase and share it publicly.

Trump’s former deputy FBI director and political ally Dan Bongino called the post disgraceful, adding, “Comey brought shame to the FBI badge yet again.”

Former Secret Service agent and Homeland Security adviser Charles Marino called Comey’s explanation implausible. “Nobody is buying his seashells-by-the-seashore story,” Marino said, emphasizing that Secret Service agents had opened an investigation to determine whether there was any legitimate threat behind the post.

The legal implications remain uncertain. Prosecutors must determine whether the post constitutes a credible threat or falls under protected speech. One legal analyst noted, “Prosecutors have to balance the content of the alleged threat with First Amendment protections. It could be an uphill battle.” Still, many agree the symbolism of “86-47” in this context crosses a dangerous line.

Tulsi Gabbard weighed in, saying she believes Comey should be held accountable: “Any other person in a position of influence who made such a post would be taken very seriously. Why should Comey be treated differently?”

Adding fuel to speculation about Comey’s motives, some have suggested the post may have been an intentional stunt to promote his upcoming book. One opinion piece blasted him for placing personal gain above integrity, accusing him of trading on controversy for attention and profit. “Comey puts fidelity to profits before fidelity to the FBI and country,” it argued.

This incident adds to growing concerns over the state of public discourse in America and the responsibilities of former government officials. Critics say that regardless of whether Comey’s intent was malicious or just careless, such posts from someone with his stature and following have real consequences.

Charles Marino concluded with a call for accountability: “We’re seeing this red line get crossed more frequently by former and current public officials. It needs to stop. People need to be held accountable.”

As the Secret Service investigation continues, the incident serves as a reminder of the weight words and symbols carry—especially when coming from those who once held the public’s trust.