Criminal Investigations Target Letitia James and Adam Schiff Over Alleged Mortgage Fraud

Grand juries in Maryland and Virginia are actively considering possible criminal charges against New York Attorney General Letitia James and California Senator Adam Schiff. The investigations stem from allegations that both high-profile Democrats submitted false information on property and mortgage documents to secure favorable loan terms.

Ed Martin, a former acting U.S. Attorney for Washington, D.C., has been appointed as a Special Prosecutor by Attorney General Pam Bondi to oversee the investigations. Martin has been tasked with managing the criminal processes in both states, including presenting evidence to the grand juries and pursuing indictments if warranted.

“These are serious allegations that demand a serious investigation,” said Martin. “Attorney General Bondi and President Trump have given me a clear directive to follow the facts wherever they lead. That is exactly what I intend to do.”

Allegations Against Letitia James

Letitia James is under scrutiny for allegedly falsifying personal details on mortgage documents, including claims that she listed her father as her husband to qualify for better lending terms. Authorities are also examining her 2023 purchase of a Norfolk, Virginia home, which she listed as her “primary residence” while continuing to serve as the attorney general of New York—a role that requires her to live in-state.

Federal Housing Finance Agency (FHFA) Director Bill Pulte referred James to the Department of Justice earlier this year, citing discrepancies in several mortgage applications. According to the referral, James may have intentionally underreported the number of units in a Brooklyn property she owns, potentially to avoid building code compliance and safety requirements.

The FHFA’s referral was seen as the catalyst for the grand jury investigation in Virginia, where subpoenas have been issued and witness testimony is already underway.

Charges Considered Against Adam Schiff

Senator Schiff is accused of similar misconduct, including misrepresenting his residency on multiple mortgage documents to gain favorable rates and tax benefits intended for primary homeowners. From 2003 to 2019, Schiff reportedly certified a Maryland home as his primary residence while simultaneously claiming a homeowner tax exemption on a California condominium, asserting it as his main address.

Documents submitted to banks and federal housing agencies suggest Schiff repeatedly affirmed the Maryland property as his primary residence for loan refinancing purposes, even while serving in the U.S. House representing California’s 28th District. Schiff did not update the status of the Maryland property to “secondary residence” until 2021.

Both Schiff and his legal team have firmly denied any wrongdoing. “These accusations are false, recycled, and politically motivated,” said Preet Bharara, Schiff’s attorney and former U.S. Attorney for the Southern District of New York. “This is a transparent attempt to weaponize the justice system against a sitting senator and political opponent.”

Special Prosecutor Appointment Raises Eyebrows

Ed Martin’s appointment has sparked debate due to his political background and his ties to conservative causes. Previously nominated by President Trump for the role of U.S. Attorney in Washington, D.C., Martin’s confirmation was blocked by retiring GOP Senator Thom Tillis.

Attorney General Bondi defended her choice, stating that Martin’s independence and prosecutorial experience made him a strong candidate for the job. “Given the high-profile nature of this investigation, it’s crucial to have someone outside the current political structure conducting the case,” she said in an interview with Fox News.

Bondi added that a special prosecutor is necessary to avoid any appearance of political bias in the investigation of two prominent Democrats. “This isn’t about politics,” she said. “This is about integrity in public service.”

Grand Juries Begin Hearing Testimony

Both the Virginia and Maryland grand juries have already begun hearing testimony. Subpoenas have gone out, and witnesses are appearing to testify about the allegedly falsified records, residency misrepresentations, and tax advantages secured through possibly fraudulent means.

Martin confirmed that the process is moving forward and emphasized the importance of a thorough and impartial review. “No one is above the law,” he said. “That includes public officials, no matter how powerful or well-known.”

While no charges have yet been filed, the cases are gaining national attention, not only for the gravity of the allegations but for the broader political implications they may carry.

As the investigations unfold, both James and Schiff maintain their innocence. Each has vowed to fight what they describe as a politically charged attempt to tarnish their reputations and derail their careers.

For now, the nation watches closely as the grand juries deliberate over the fate of two major political figures.