Bye Letitia? Criminal Referral Filed Against NY AG Over Real Estate Fraud Accusation

A criminal referral has been submitted to the Department of Justice against New York Attorney General Letitia James. The referral alleges James falsified records to obtain home loans, specifically for a Virginia property. These actions occurred while James served as a New York state prosecutor. The referral was sent by Federal Housing Finance Agency Director William Pulte to Attorney General Pam Bondi. The referral also highlights issues regarding a five-family Brooklyn property owned by James. James allegedly misrepresented the Brooklyn property as having only four units in permit applications and mortgage documents. This misrepresentation could have resulted in a lower mortgage interest rate under the Home Assistance Modification Program. Pulte's referral cites inconsistencies between the property's certificate of occupancy and James' filings. He also noted she listed herself and her father as "husband and wife" on documents years ago. James granted power of attorney to a relative for the Virginia property purchase. Pulte believes James falsified records to meet lending requirements and secure favorable terms. Potential charges against James include wire fraud, mail fraud, bank fraud, and making false statements.