New York Attorney General Letitia James pleaded not guilty to federal mortgage fraud charges, accusing the Trump administration of weaponizing the justice system as a tool of revenge following her civil fraud case against him.
New York Attorney General Letitia James entered a not guilty plea in a federal mortgage fraud case in Virginia, vehemently accusing the Trump administration of using the justice system as a 'tool of revenge' and a 'weapon.' This high-stakes legal battle unfolds after James pursued a significant civil fraud case against Trump. Prosecutors allege James misrepresented her intent when purchasing a Norfolk home in 2020, signing a 'second home rider' but then renting the property out instead of using it for personal enjoyment, thereby securing favorable loan terms. James' indictment followed the removal of the U.S. attorney previously overseeing the investigation and President Trump's public calls for action against her and other political adversaries. Lindsey Halligan, a former Trump lawyer and White House aide with no prior federal prosecution experience, replaced the U.S. attorney and presented James' case to the grand jury. James is the third Trump foe to face federal charges this month, amplifying concerns that the president is leveraging government law enforcement for retribution. Her attorney plans to seek dismissal, arguing vindictive prosecution. James, who expressed strong faith in the rule of law, stated there was 'no fear today.' The trial is scheduled for January 26. The article also highlights similar federal charges against former FBI Director James Comey and former national security adviser John Bolton, and ongoing investigations into Democratic Sen. Adam Schiff and Federal Reserve Board member Lisa Cook, all figures who have drawn Trump's ire.
