The Federal Housing Finance Agency (FHFA) has made a criminal referral to the Department of Justice regarding New York Attorney General Leticia James, alleging that her Virginia home is misrepresented as her primary residence to gain more favorable mortgage conditions.
“According to news reports, Leticia James has altered bank documents and property records on various occasions to secure government assistance and loans, as well as enhanced lending terms,” the agency stated in a referral obtained by Hill.
“When obtaining the Norfolk, Virginia property and mortgage in 2023, James held the position of New York Attorney General, which necessitates her primary residence to be in New York.
The referral seeks a criminal investigation into James, who filed a civil fraud lawsuit against President Trump last year.
A New York judge determined that Trump and his business had colluded to manipulate the net worth for tax and insurance purposes after it became evident they were previously accountable for fraud. The judge mandated the defendant to pay interest alongside $464 million.
James’ office noted the Trump administration’s federal exploitation in addressing the referral.
“Attorney General James is committed daily to safeguarding New Yorkers, especially as this administration weaponizes federal resources against the rule of law and the Constitution. She is not intimidated by bullies.
The referral indicates that James categorized five-unit apartments in Brooklyn as a four-unit building. The FHFA pointed out that the home-financed program allowed for funding of up to four units, enabling FHFA to secure more favorable loan conditions.
“The FHFA views this and other purported misconduct as a breach of criminal law as specified in 18 USC §1343 (Telephone Fraud), 18 USC §1341 (Postal Fraud), 18 USC §1344 (Bank Fraud), 18 USC §1014 (False Statement to Financial Institutions), among other related federal laws.
The correspondence to the Justice Department was signed by FHFA Director William Palt, who is a Trump appointee that assumed the role one month ago.
