The Department of Justice has reportedly opened a criminal investigation into E. Jean Carroll, the former Elle magazine columnist who accused President Trump of sexual assault in civil court cases that resulted in a $5 million judgment against him.
According to CNN, citing multiple sources familiar with the matter, investigators are examining whether Carroll committed perjury during the lawsuits. The probe is being led by U.S. Attorney for the Northern District of Illinois Andrew Boutros.
Prosecutors’ case centers on a 2022 deposition in which Carroll, 82, said she received no outside funding for her lawsuit, later contradicted by revelations that billionaire Reid Hoffman covered some legal fees and expenses.
Acting Attorney General Todd Blanche has recused himself from the investigation due to his prior role representing President Trump in the Carroll case.
