Reporters later visited the Virginia property and were asked to leave by a woman who declined to comment on James’ connection to the residence.

Additional claims allege James misrepresented details about a Brooklyn brownstone she purchased in 2001, including understating the number of residential units. This could have allowed her to avoid compliance with housing safety regulations, such as fire alarm installations.

In response to the investigation, New York lawmakers recently included a $10 million provision in the state budget to cover legal defense costs for state officials facing federal legal action. While the measure was presented as a general safeguard, its timing has drawn attention amid the scrutiny surrounding James.

The investigation remains ongoing, and no charges have been filed. However, the situation has drawn