NORFOLK, VA (October 24, 2025) — New York Attorney General Letitia James pleaded not guilty Friday to federal charges of bank fraud and making false statements related to a 2020 home purchase in Norfolk, vowing not to be deterred from her duties.
The five-page indictment accuses James of falsely claiming in loan documents that she would use the Norfolk property as her primary residence to secure a lower interest rate. If convicted on both counts, she faces up to 60 years in prison and a fine of up to $2 million. Her trial is scheduled for January.
Following her arraignment in federal court here, James released a statement thanking supporters and framing the case as part of a weaponized justice system.
“I want to thank all of you. I want to thank each and every one of you. I want to thank you for your prayers. I want to thank you for your emails. I want to thank you for your support,” James said.
“It has strengthened my spirit. And it has anchored my soul. And so, I want to thank you.
“But this is not about me. This is about all of us, and about a justice system which has been weaponized. A justice system which has been used as a tool of revenge. This justice system which has been used as a tool of revenge – and a weapon against those individuals who simply did their job and stood up for the rule of law. And a justice system which unfortunately is being used as a vehicle of retribution.
“But my faith is strong. I have this belief in the justice system and the rule of law. And I have a belief in America and all of its individuals who have stood with me – not only in New York but all across this nation.
“I have heard from just about every jurisdiction in this nation who have said, ‘Stand up and be tall. Never ever bow down or back down or break or bend.’
“So, there’s no fear today. No fear. No fear. No fear. No fear.
“Because I believe that justice will rain down like water and righteousness like a mighty stream.
“And I am here to say that my work and my job and all that I do – all throughout my public career – I have stood up for the rights of New Yorkers and Americans. And I will not be deterred.
“I will not be deterred. I will not be distracted. I will do my job each and every day. And that is why I am headed back to New York, because there is work to be done standing up for the rule of law.
“God bless you and thank you all. I appreciate you.”
James, who has pursued high-profile civil cases against former President Donald Trump, returned to New York immediately after the hearing to continue her work.
This article was drafted with the aid of Grok, an AI tool by xAI, under the direction and editing of Robert Cox to ensure accuracy and adherence to journalistic standards.
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