BREAKING: Letitia James pleads not guilty in federal fraud case, trial set for Jan 26

New York Attorney General Letitia James has pleaded not guilty to felony charges of bank fraud and making false statements to a financial institution in relation to a 2020 purchase of a Norfolk, Virginia home. The plea was entered at her arraignment at a federal court in Norfolk on Friday. 

Per CNN, a trial date has been set for January 26, 2026, and the judge said the trial would likely take around five days. The DOJ said it has between eight to 10 witnesses it might call. James was released on personal recognizance. The judge overseeing the case, Jamar Walker, was nominated to the Eastern District of Virginia in 2022 by then-President Joe Biden.

At the hearing, James’ attorney said that he expects to file a motion to dismiss the case, claiming that the DOJ is engaging in selective and vindictive prosecution. The judge said the motion must be filed by November 7, with the DOJ having until November 21 to respond. A hearing on the motion would take place on December 5. 

James has been accused of making false statements on a mortgage application, which stated that the Norfolk home she bought would be her second residence, resided in by herself, but instead allegedly rented it out.

Speaking outside the courtroom before the hearing, James told supporters that their support "strengthened my spirit."

"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 … and a weapon against those individuals who simply did their job and who stood up for the rule of law, and a justice system which unfortunately is being used as a vehicle of retribution," she said. 

"But my faith is strong and my faith is … I have this belief in the justice system and the rule of law, and I have a belief in America," James said.

"There's no fear today, no fear," James said. "Because I believe that justice will rain down like water and righteousness like a mighty stream, and I'm here to say that my work and my job and all that I do all throughout my public career — I've stood up for the rights of New Yorkers and Americans and I will not be deterred ... I will not be distracted. I will do my job each and every day."