New York Attorney General Letitia James is under new scrutiny following a federal referral and an ethics complaint related to a property she listed as her primary residence in Virginia during 2023.

According to reports, the Federal Housing Finance Agency (FHFA) referred the matter to the U.S. Department of Justice, suggesting that James may have misrepresented her residency status to obtain a government-backed mortgage. If proven, such a misrepresentation could amount to mortgage fraud and raise ethical concerns.

The timing of the alleged conduct—around August 2023—is notable, as it coincided with James’ high-profile civil case against the Trump Organization, which resulted in a significant financial judgment.

Adding to the controversy, the conservative nonprofit America First Legal has filed a formal ethics complaint with New York’s Committee on Professional Standards. The complaint argues that James may have violated legal ethics rules that prohibit dishonesty and fraud, even if no criminal charges are filed.

Dan Epstein, Vice President of the organization, stressed the importance of holding public officials accountable. “Legal professionals, especially those in positions of public trust, are expected to meet high standards of integrity,” he said.

Legal experts say that attorneys—particularly those in public service—must ensure complete accuracy in all financial and legal disclosures. As the state’s top legal officer, James is expected to follow those rules closely.

While the ethics committee has not yet commented on the complaint and no disciplinary actions have been announced, the situation raises larger concerns about transparency and accountability in public office.

The federal investigation is still underway, and Attorney General James has not publicly responded to the allegations.