The U.S. Department of Justice has reportedly opened a criminal investigation into writer E. Jean Carroll, according to multiple sources familiar with the matter. The inquiry is said to focus on whether Carroll committed perjury during her civil lawsuits against President Donald Trump.
Investigation
Sources say the investigation is examining statements made by Carroll during her civil cases against Trump, in which she was awarded damages following jury findings related to sexual assault and defamation claims. The specific focus, according to the sources, is whether any testimony given in court may have been inaccurate or misleading.
The Justice Department has not publicly confirmed the existence of the probe. A DOJ spokesperson declined to comment when contacted.
Legal Context
Carroll previously brought civil lawsuits against Donald Trump, resulting in jury verdicts that found him liable for sexual abuse in 2023 and defamation in 2024. Those cases led to combined financial judgments totaling nearly $90 million.
Trump has denied the allegations and has continued to challenge the rulings through the appeals process.
Recusal and Oversight
According to sources, Acting Attorney General Todd Blanche has recused himself from involvement in the investigation due to his prior legal representation of Trump in related matters.
The probe is reportedly being led by the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of Illinois, Andrew Boutros.
Related Appeals
Separately, Trump’s legal team has continued to pursue appeals in the civil cases, including requests to pause enforcement of certain rulings while seeking review by higher courts, including the U.S. Supreme Court.
A federal appeals court in New York previously rejected attempts to revisit certain arguments, including claims related to immunity and substitution of the United States as a defendant.
Broader Context
The reported investigation comes amid broader scrutiny of legal disputes involving high-profile political figures and civil litigation outcomes that remain under appeal or review. At this stage, no charges have been filed, and the matter remains at an early investigative phase based on available reporting.
Response
The Department of Justice has not issued a formal statement confirming details of the probe. Attorneys connected to Carroll also did not provide comment when contacted by media outlets.
As with all ongoing federal investigations, officials typically avoid public statements until and unless charges are filed or proceedings move forward in court.
The reported investigation remains unconfirmed by the Justice Department and is still developing based on information from unnamed sources. No criminal charges have been announced, and the matter is expected to continue unfolding through legal and procedural channels.
FAQs
What is the DOJ investigating in this case?
Sources say it involves whether E. Jean Carroll committed perjury in civil lawsuits.
Has the DOJ confirmed the investigation?
No, the Department of Justice has not publicly confirmed the probe.
What were the original civil cases about?
They involved claims of sexual assault and defamation against Donald Trump.
Has anyone been charged?
No criminal charges have been announced.
Who is reportedly leading the probe?
It is reportedly being handled by the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of Illinois.
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