The U.S. Department of Justice has begun a criminal investigation into E Jean Carroll. She is the writer who accused former President Donald Trump of sexual assault. This investigation is looking into whether Carroll lied under oath. This happened in connection with the civil cases she brought against Trump.
The probe centers on a 2022 deposition. Carroll stated she received no outside funding for her lawsuit. However, legal documents later showed Reid Hoffman. He is a co-founder of LinkedIn. Hoffman helped pay for some of Carroll's legal fees and expenses. This information came out during the appeal of her case. The court noted Carroll received limited outside funding. The court also stated she was not involved in decisions about funding her legal costs.
This development adds a new layer to the ongoing legal battles between Carroll and Trump. In 2023, a jury found Trump liable for sexual assault. He also faced liability for defamation. This was for comments made on social media. A second lawsuit in 2024 found Trump liable again for defamation. This occurred due to comments he made in 2019. Trump has appealed both judgments. He was ordered to pay $5 million in the first case. Carroll was awarded $83 million in the second case.
This criminal investigation is being managed by the U.S. Attorney's Office for the Northern District of Illinois. Sources suggest Chicago was chosen due to Hoffman's non-profit organization being based there. Acting U.S. Attorney General Todd Blanche has recused himself. He previously represented Trump in the appeals against Carroll. This new investigation may influence future legal strategies. It could also impact public perception of past legal findings.
The implications of this investigation are significant. It could lead to charges against Carroll if she is found to have committed perjury. This would complicate the final outcomes of the civil cases. It also highlights the intense scrutiny of legal proceedings involving prominent public figures. All parties will be watching closely for further developments from the Justice Department. Their findings could set new precedents in similar cases.