Letitia James Pleads Not Guilty to Bank Fraud Charges

New York Attorney General Letitia James entered a not guilty plea on Friday, facing two felony charges of bank fraud and making false statements to a financial institution.

According to prosecutors, James allegedly sought better loan terms. She had consulted her bank regarding the intended use of a property in Norfolk, Virginia, which she purchased in 2020. The indictment claims that while she stated this house was her second home, she actually rented it out to family members.

In response to the indictment, James stated, “This is nothing but a continuation of the president’s desperate weaponization of our justice system.” She further described the allegations as “baseless,” emphasizing that she believes the president’s intentions are rooted in political revenge.

James’ attorney, Abby Lowell, expressed concerns about prosecutorial conduct, referencing statements made by prosecutor Lindsay Harrigan in court: “These extrajudicial statements and adverse disclosures… violate various legal and ethical standards.”

The indictment indicates that securing a lower interest rate on the mortgage could lead to a savings of $19,000 over the life of the loan.

James campaigned in 2016 with a vow to scrutinize Donald Trump’s actions. She previously spearheaded a civil fraud case against him in 2024. In August 2025, the Court of Appeals imposed substantial financial penalties on Trump.

Lindsey Harrigan, a White House aide who was nominated by Trump to serve as the acting attorney for the Eastern District of Virginia, is overseeing the prosecution of James. Harrigan remarked, “No one is above the law,” asserting that the charges represent serious violations of trust and intentional criminal acts. She affirmed the commitment to pursuing justice based on the clarifying facts and laws involved.