Trump Accuser E. Jean Carroll Faces Federal Perjury Investigation/ Newslooks/ WASHINGTON/ J. Mansour/ Morning Edition/ The United States Department of Justice has opened a perjury investigation into E. Jean Carroll related to her civil litigation against Donald Trump. Federal prosecutors in Chicago are leading the inquiry, while acting Attorney General Todd Blanche has reportedly recused himself because of prior work for Trump. The investigation adds to growing scrutiny over the Trump administration’s Justice Department targeting perceived political adversaries.
E. Jean Carroll Investigation Quick Looks
- DOJ opens perjury investigation into E. Jean Carroll.
- Chicago federal prosecutors leading inquiry.
- Todd Blanche reportedly not involved in case.
- Carroll accused Trump of sexual assault in 1996.
- Trump denies allegations, calling them a “made-up scam.”
- Trump previously found liable in civil trials.
- Carroll awarded $88.3 million across two verdicts.
- Trump currently delaying payment during appeals process.
- Democrats criticize DOJ actions as politically motivated.
- Investigation first reported by CNN.
Deep Look
Justice Department Investigates E. Jean Carroll
The United States Department of Justice has opened an investigation into whether E. Jean Carroll lied during civil litigation involving Donald Trump, according to a source familiar with the matter.
The investigation centers on possible perjury allegations connected to Carroll’s lawsuits against Trump stemming from her accusation that he sexually assaulted her inside a Manhattan department store in the 1990s.
The inquiry is reportedly being handled by federal prosecutors in Chicago. Acting Attorney General Todd Blanche has had no involvement because he previously worked as Trump’s personal attorney.
Carroll’s Allegations Against Trump
According to Carroll, Trump:
- Pushed her against a dressing room wall
- Pulled down her tights
- Forced himself on her
Trump has consistently denied the allegations.
He has repeatedly described Carroll’s claims as a “made-up scam.”
Trump Previously Found Liable
The following year, another jury awarded Carroll $83.3 million in a separate defamation case tied to Trump’s social media attacks against her.
Combined, the judgments totaled $88.3 million.
Trump continues appealing both rulings.
Earlier this month, the United States Court of Appeals for the Second Circuit allowed Trump to delay payment while seeking review from the Supreme Court of the United States.
The court required Trump to post a $7.4 million bond to cover potential interest costs during the appeals process.
DOJ Actions Raise Political Concerns
The investigation into Carroll comes amid growing criticism of the Trump administration’s handling of the Justice Department.
Democrats and former federal officials have argued the administration is increasingly using federal law enforcement against perceived political opponents and critics.
Recent high-profile investigations have included actions involving:
- Former FBI Director James Comey
- Journalists and media leaks
- Trump critics inside government agencies
Critics argue the department’s traditional independence from the White House is being weakened.
Supporters of the administration maintain the investigations are legally justified and necessary.
Lawyers for Carroll Silent So Far
Attorneys representing Carroll did not immediately respond to requests for comment from The Associated Press.
The investigation was first reported publicly by CNN.
At this stage:
- No criminal charges have been announced
- The investigation remains ongoing
- Details about the scope of the inquiry remain unclear
Political and Legal Fallout Continues
The renewed legal battle adds another layer to the long-running public conflict between Trump and Carroll.
The case has remained politically explosive because it touches on:
- Trump’s legal exposure
- Questions about DOJ independence
- 2026 election politics
- Allegations of political retaliation
The investigation also unfolds while Trump continues navigating multiple legal and political controversies connected to his second term in office.
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