DOJ Investigates Trump's Accuser: Perjury Probe Into Carroll

DOJ Investigates Trump's Accuser: Perjury Probe Into Carroll

The U.S. Justice Department has opened a criminal investigation into E. Jean Carroll, the writer who successfully sued Donald Trump for sexual abuse and defamation. As of May 28, 2026, sources confirm the inquiry is focused on whether Carroll committed perjury regarding outside funding during her legal battles with Trump.

Core Investigation Details

The Allegation: The probe stems from a 2022 deposition where Carroll stated she received no outside financial backing for her lawsuits. Her legal team later disclosed that billionaire LinkedIn co-founder Reid Hoffman had funded a portion of her legal fees.

Leadership: The investigation is reportedly being led by Andrew Boutros, the U.S. Attorney for the Northern District of Illinois (Chicago).

Recusals: Acting Attorney General Todd Blanche has officially recused himself from the probe because he previously served as one of Trump's personal defense attorneys during the Carroll civil appeals.

Context of Previous Civil Lawsuits

The criminal inquiry stands in stark contrast to the civil judgments already secured by Carroll:

May 2023 Verdict: A federal jury found Trump liable for sexual abuse and defamation, awarding Carroll $5 million.

January 2024 Verdict: A separate federal jury ordered Trump to pay $83.3 million for further defamatory statements.

Current Status: Trump continues to appeal these civil judgments. The U.S. Supreme Court has repeatedly deferred decisions on whether it will review the $5 million verdict.

Broader Landscape

This inquiry is part of a broader pattern of investigations launched by the current Justice Department targeting individuals who have been public adversaries of President Trump. The opening of a grand jury or U.S. Attorney investigation does not guarantee that formal criminal charges will ultimately be filed against Carroll. Neither Carroll's lead attorney, Robbie Kaplan, nor the Justice Department have issued official public comments regarding the active investigation.

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