ESVA native is presiding over Letitia James case

The federal judge presiding over the U.S. government’s case against Letitia James was born and raised on the Eastern Shore of Virginia.

Judge Jamar Walker is a 2004 graduate of Nandua High School and became the first openly gay federal judge in Virginia history. He was appointed to the federal bench by President Joe Biden in 2023.

Letitia James, the New York Attorney General, has been charged with mortgage fraud and making false statements related to the purchase of a home in Norfolk, Virginia. Prosecutors allege she falsely claimed she would use the property as a second residence to secure more favorable loan terms before instead renting it to tenants. James, who previously prosecuted former President Donald Trump for civil fraud, has called the indictment a politically motivated “tool of revenge.” Her attorneys have indicated they will seek dismissal of the case on grounds of vindictive prosecution.

James was arraigned Friday in Norfolk. A trial date has been set for January 26, 2026. She has pleaded not guilty.