Investigation into Leticia James’ Mortgage Practices

On Friday, special lawyer Ed Martin from the U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ) was seen inspecting the home of New York State Attorney General Leticia James in Brooklyn. This visit is part of a federal investigation into allegations of mortgage fraud against her, as reported by the New York Post.

Martin was appointed special counsel by Attorney General Pam Bondi on August 8th. His role involves investigating not only James but also Democratic Senator Adam Schiff from California. Currently, judges in both Maryland and Virginia are deliberating on potential criminal charges stemming from accusations that the two manipulated real estate documents to obtain more favorable loan terms.

James’ residence is described as a five-unit building, but she allegedly misrepresented it as a four-unit property for various financial benefits—like more favorable interest rates through Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac. This distinction is crucial as it determines eligibility for certain government support.

There are also claims regarding James and her father misrepresenting their relationship in order to meet mortgage requirements. This has raised eyebrows and seems to contribute to the complexity of the case.

While Martin conducted his inspection, onlookers challenged him, asking why he was there and expressing their concern. Martin responded casually, saying, “I’m just looking at the house, the interesting house. It’s an important house,” which seemed a bit vague and detached from the situation.

The inquiry was initiated back in April, prompted by a request from Bill Prute of the Federal Housing and Finance Agency. Prute raised suspicions that James may have falsified documentation regarding her residences, specifically stating that her Brooklyn property was her second home while she categorized another residence as her primary one.

Martin is optimistic about the progress of the investigation and noted that it was initiated by Pulte’s crime referral. He emphasized that, as both James and Schiff have often asserted, “No one is beyond the law.”