The U.S. Justice Department has opened a criminal investigation into E. Jean Carroll, the columnist who accused former President Donald Trump of sexual assault, over allegations that she made false statements during her civil litigation against him, according to a source familiar with the matter.
Details of the Investigation
Federal investigators are examining whether Carroll provided false testimony or evidence in the defamation and battery case she brought against Trump. The probe reportedly focuses on statements made during depositions and court filings related to the incident, which Carroll claims occurred in a Manhattan department store in the 1990s.
Political Backlash
The reported investigation has triggered intense backlash online, with critics accusing Trump allies of weaponizing the Justice Department against one of the president's most prominent accusers. Supporters of Carroll have condemned the probe as a politically motivated attempt to intimidate sexual assault survivors.
Background of the Case
Carroll first publicly accused Trump of sexual assault in a 2019 memoir, alleging that he raped her in a Bergdorf Goodman dressing room. Trump denied the allegations, calling them a hoax. In 2023, a New York jury found Trump liable for sexual abuse and defamation, awarding Carroll $5 million in damages. A second trial in 2024 resulted in an additional $83.3 million verdict against Trump for defamation.
Legal Implications
If Carroll is found to have made false statements, she could face perjury charges, which carry potential prison time. Legal experts note that proving false statements in civil cases is often challenging, and the DOJ would need to demonstrate intentional deception. Carroll's legal team has not yet commented on the investigation.
Reactions from Both Sides
Trump's supporters have welcomed the probe as a step toward accountability, while women's rights groups have expressed alarm. The case highlights the ongoing polarization surrounding Trump's legal battles and the treatment of his accusers. The DOJ has declined to confirm or deny the investigation, citing standard policy.
As the investigation unfolds, it is expected to further fuel debates over the independence of the Justice Department and the handling of sexual assault allegations against powerful figures. Carroll has maintained her innocence and vowed to cooperate with authorities.
