Who is Letitia James? New York attorney general accused of mortgage fraud by Trump officials

TOI World Desk / TIMESOFINDIA.COM / Apr 16, 2025, 08:39 IST

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Tensions escalate as the Trump administration accuses New York Attorney General Letitia James of mortgage fraud. The FHFA has referred the matter to the Department of Justice for possible criminal investigation, alleging James misrepresented property details and residency. James, known for her legal battles against Trump, faces scrutiny amid ongoing legal challenges.

Who is Letitia James? New York attorney general accused of mortgage fraud by Trump officials

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The Trump administration has accused New York Attorney General Letitia James of mortgage fraud, escalating tensions between the two sides. The allegations were revealed in documents obtained by Fox News, showing that the FHFA has referred the matter to the department of justice for possible criminal investigation.
The referral, signed by FHFA director William Pulte, highlights two key claims. First, that James falsely listed a Virginia property as her principal residence. Second, she misrepresented a New York property as a four-unit structure instead of five — which may have qualified her for different loan terms. There is also an allegation that she listed her father as her husband on past documents.

‘Karma’: Letitia James facing potential prosecution over alleged mortgage fraud

Who is Letitia James?

Letitia James is a Democrat and has served as New York’s attorney general since 2019, according to PBS.
She is the first Black woman elected to statewide office in New York.
Known for her aggressive legal stance, James gained national attention after filing a civil fraud lawsuit against Donald Trump, the Trump Organisation, and several of its executives in 2022.
That case led to a $454 million judgment, which Trump is currently appealing. James has remained a visible figure in the courtroom and the media throughout the proceedings.
This year, she has launched at least five legal challenges against the Trump administration, including a coalition-led lawsuit opposing the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE)’s access to Treasury systems and a separate suit against federal funding cuts to universities.

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