In a dramatic twist that could upend New York’s political landscape, the U.S. Justice Department has launched multiple criminal investigations into New York Attorney GeneralLetitia James, triggering sharp criticism and charges of political retribution.

A Federal Grand Jury Probe—and Public Backlash

The Department of Justice recently convened a federal grand jury in the Albany U.S. Attorney’s Office to investigate whether AG James violated the civil rights of Donald Trump and his children through her civil fraud lawsuits—most notably the one that secured a multihundred-million-dollar judgment. The DOJ also issued subpoenas demanding documents related to both that fraud suit and her case targeting the NRA.

In response, James’s attorney, Abbe Lowell, called the probe a blatant attempt at political retribution”, warning that weaponizing federal power against an elected official sets a dangerous precedent.

Allegations of Mortgage Fraud

In a separate but linked investigation, the DOJ is scrutinizing mortgage documents connected to a 2023 property in Norfolk, Virginia. Allegations include misstatements—James allegedly claimed the property as her “primary residence” despite clear indications that it was not. The investigation stems from a referral by the Federal Housing Finance Agency and has prompted James to deny wrongdoing, calling it a politically motivated smear.

A Legacy of Legal Confrontation

Letitia James has built a reputation as a formidable legal adversary to Donald Trump. In 2022 she sued his organization for financial misrepresentation, securing a judgment exceeding $300 million, which has now ballooned—including interest—into a half‑billion‑dollar claim. That ruling remains on appeal. Simultaneously, her efforts to dissolve the NRA and hold its leadership accountable have further cemented her status as a public interest crusader.

Political Retaliation or Legal Oversight?

The judicial and political communities are sharply divided on the implications. Critics argue the probe marks vindictive overreach by the Trump DOJ, targeting a political opponent under the cloak of law enforcement. Others argue it’s a warranted response to potential misconduct

What’s at Stake

These investigations could have serious consequences—not only for Letitia James’s career and legal standing, but also for broader public trust in the justice system’s impartiality. Whether the DOJ uncovers wrongdoing or not, the optics of this probe will shape public debate on the boundaries between justice and politics.