US President Donald Trump lashed out at New York Attorney GeneralLetitia James on Tuesday, calling her “a total crook” after the justice department received a criminal referral accusing the Democrat of mortgage fraud.Speaking from the Oval Office, Trump claimed James was “a disaster for New York” and “a horrible, horrible human being,” adding, “I think she’s a total crook, there’s no question about it — but that’s just my opinion,” as quoted by the New York Post. He insisted that US attorney general Pam Bondi would “do what’s right” with the referral, though he distanced himself from the decision. “Pam’s gonna have to do what she wants… She always does. I’ve known her a long time.”Trump’s remarks came shortly after Bondi declined to confirm whether her office would act on the April 14 criminal referral sent by federal housing finance agency director William Pulte. “We don’t discuss anything pending or not within my office,” she told reporters.Pulte’s letter alleges James falsified financial documents to secure more favourable mortgage terms. According to the referral, James allegedly misrepresented a Norfolk, Virginia home as her primary residence despite listing her New York address elsewhere, a tactic that would reduce her interest rate. She also allegedly listed a five-unit Brooklyn building she owns as having only four units, a move that would qualify the property for more favourable government-backed loan terms.“Primary residence mortgages receive more favourable loan terms,” Pulte wrote, adding that multifamily buildings with more than four units face higher interest rates and stricter requirements.James has denied any wrongdoing. Her personal attorney, Abbe Lowell, told Bondi in an April 24 letter that James’ niece was intended to live in the Norfolk home, and that the “mistaken” filing shouldn’t be seen as fraud. Regarding the Brooklyn property, Lowell argued that it has functioned as a four-unit residence since James purchased it in 2001, and its basement has remained unoccupied.A spokesperson for James also dismissed Trump’s attacks and said, “AG James is focused every single day on protecting New Yorkers and upholding the law – not personal attacks, no matter who they come from,” New York Post reported.James famously led the 2023 civil fraud case against Trump, which concluded with a $364 million judgment against him and a combined $8 million penalty against his sons Eric and Donald Jr. As of last month, that figure had grown to over $500 million due to interest, as Trump appeals the ruling.As per the BBC, the White House confirmed that no charges have been filed against James yet, but acknowledged further action could follow if the Justice Department proceeds.James’ office, meanwhile, has accused the Trump administration of using federal power for political revenge. “She will not be intimidated by bullies — no matter who they are,” a spokesperson was quoted by BBC.
