Political speech, timestamped and in context

Letitia James: “This is now an active criminal investigation led by the Office of the Attorney General.”

Featuring: Letitia James, Democratic | Attorney General of New York

BREAKING NEWS: New York's Hochul, James Hold Press Briefing On Cornell University Investigation

Published October 2, 2026

I know that you want answers. I do, too. A comprehensive investigation of this nature takes time, but my office is committed to seeing it through. This is now an active criminal investigation led by the Office of the Attorney General. And though we are limited in what we can share, we will provide updates as they become available. Again, I want to thank Governor Hochul for her leadership. (05:41–05:49)

STATEMENT

Asserts that the investigation is now an active criminal investigation under her office.

This is an excerpt from a raw transcript. The assertions have not been audited or verified. Tap the video to view the source footage and understand the context.

See the main statements from Letitia James in this video

“The governor has entrusted my office with this investigation, and we do not take that responsibility lightly.”
Asserts that the Governor has appointed her office to lead the investigation.04:32-04:40
“Every New Yorker deserves to know that when they report a crime, it will be investigated fully, fairly, that they will be seen and heard.”
Asserts that crimes reported by New Yorkers should be fully and fairly investigated.04:40-04:53
“In the coming months, my office will dutifully carry out the responsibilities the governor has conferred upon us in this executive order.”
Asserts that her office will fulfill the responsibilities assigned by the Governor's executive order.05:05-05:13
“We will review the facts, gather evidence, interview witnesses, and if warranted, pursue prosecutions.”
Asserts that her office will conduct a thorough investigation and pursue prosecutions if necessary.05:13-05:25
“Our investigation is a criminal investigation based upon all of the facts. And so at this point in time, we will not be focusing on the actions of the district attorney.”
Asserts that the investigation led by Letitia James is criminal in nature and will not focus on the district attorney's actions.13:11-13:20