Senator Adam Schiff has established a legal defense fund as federal investigators hone in on allegations of mortgage fraud. Reports indicate the Department of Justice has launched a criminal probe into whether Schiff misrepresented his residency status to secure favorable loan terms on two properties—one in Maryland and one in California.
The investigation stems from a referral by the Federal Housing Finance Agency, which accused the senator of claiming his Maryland home as a primary residence—even while simultaneously placing his California condo in the same category for tax and mortgage benefits. Fannie Mae’s Financial Crimes Division reviewed the records and reportedly confirmed what it described as a "sustained pattern of possible occupancy misrepresentation," spanning multiple mortgage applications and refinancings between 2003 and 2019.
A special prosecutor, appointed by Attorney General Pam Bondi, is now overseeing the probe alongside grand juries in Maryland and Virginia that are weighing possible indictments. Alleged charges under review include mortgage fraud, bank and wire fraud, and making false statements to financial institutions.
On defense, Schiff’s legal counsel has forcefully rejected the accusations, labeling them as politically motivated smears intended to punish him for holding the current administration accountable. The newly established legal defense fund, his team asserts, will ensure he can both defend himself in court and fulfill his legislative responsibilities.