Letitia James arraigned on mortgage fraud charges
New York Attorney General Letitia James appeared at a Virginia federal courthouse on Friday morning to face mortgage fraud charges filed by the Justice Department two weeks earlier. Federal prosecutors claim she misrepresented a Norfolk property as a second home rather than an investment rental when obtaining financing.
Judge Jamar K. Walker presided over the arraignment as James entered not guilty pleas to bank fraud and false statements charges that carry maximum penalties of 30 years imprisonment and $1 million in fines. Defense attorney Abbe Lowell requested a swift trial, noting that discovery materials had not been provided and that several motions would require court review.
The prosecution team included an assistant U.S. attorney from Missouri because local prosecutors declined to pursue the case. Interim U.S. Attorney Lindsey Halligan personally presented evidence to a grand jury after her predecessor resigned rather than bring charges against James and former FBI Director James Comey.
Walker scheduled a five-day trial beginning Jan. 26, 2026. James filed motions challenging Halligan’s appointment and requesting restrictions against government statements to media outlets.
