FBI Opens Probe into Mortgage Fraud Allegations Against New York AG Letitia James

The FBI has begun a criminal investigation into mortgage fraud allegations against New York Attorney General Letitia James. The inquiry, reported by several U.S. media outlets, appears intertwined with political tensions, as President Donald Trump has publicly criticized James for her legal actions against him.

James, joined by other attorneys general, has been actively challenging Trump's policies, including his second-term agenda. She previously filed a civil fraud lawsuit against Trump, leading to millions in penalties. Following these events, Trump has called for James and New York State Justice Arthur Engoron to be prosecuted.

The allegations, brought to light by Federal Housing Finance Agency Director William Pulte, suggest that James falsified records to secure favorable loans for homes in Virginia and Brooklyn. Her lawyer dismissed these claims as "baseless and long-discredited." The FBI's Albany office is currently handling the investigation. Both the Department of Justice and the FBI have declined to comment on the matter.

(With inputs from agencies.)