Justice Department opens perjury probe of E. Jean Carroll

The Justice Department has opened a criminal investigation into E. Jean Carroll, the former magazine columnist who successfully sued former President Donald Trump for sexual abuse and defamation. The inquiry, first reported by multiple news organizations, focuses on whether Carroll committed perjury during testimony connected to her civil lawsuits.

Prosecutors are examining a 2022 deposition in which Carroll stated she had received no outside funding for her litigation. It was later revealed that billionaire Reid Hoffman had paid some legal fees and expenses through a nonprofit organization. The investigation is being handled by federal prosecutors in Chicago, where Hoffman’s nonprofit is based.

Acting Attorney General Todd Blanche is recused from the matter because he previously represented Trump in appeals related to Carroll’s cases. A Justice Department spokesperson confirmed that no U.S. Attorney’s office has declined to investigate the subject but declined further comment.

Carroll’s legal team disclosed the funding arrangement to the court before trial, clarifying that Carroll had not met or communicated with anyone associated with the nonprofit. During the proceedings,...