GOP challenger alleges AG Letitia James funneled $54 million to anti-police groups

In a report released by Republican attorney-general hopeful Saritha Komatireddy, more than $54 million of the $226 million in grants issued by the New York Attorney General’s office since 2019 was allocated to six legal organizations that oppose traditional policing practices. The grants, administered through the Homeowner Protection Program originally created by former AG Eric Schneiderman, went to groups such as Mobilization for Justice ($3,350,116), The Legal Aid Society ($6,495,936), New York Legal Assistance Group ($6,971,387), Empire Justice Center ($8,192,613), Legal Services NYC and its borough affiliates ($20,905,619), and the Western New York Law Center ($8,238,213).

Komatireddy argues the money, intended for homeowner protection, is being diverted to criminal-defense and immigrant-advocacy work, which she says harms public safety. James’ campaign responded that the program provides vital legal counsel and housing assistance, calling the accusations a political smear. The dispute occurs as James seeks a third term, having previously sued President Donald Trump and commissioned a report that led to former Governor Andrew Cuomo’s resignation.