Justice Department Investigates E. Jean Carroll’s Lawsuits Against Trump

The Justice Department is examining elements of two lawsuits filed by E. Jean Carroll. Carroll, an 82-year-old former magazine writer, accused Donald Trump of sexual assault. The New York Times reported this investigation on Wednesday.

At the center of the inquiry are donations made by a nonprofit founded by Reid Hoffman. Hoffman, the billionaire co-founder of LinkedIn, paid for part of Carroll’s legal expenses. The specifics of any possible charges remain uncertain.

Andrew S. Boutros, the U.S. attorney in Chicago, made it clear on Thursday that his office has not initiated a criminal investigation into Carroll. He did not address matters related to Hoffman, who expressed his thoughts on social media.

Hoffman stated, “Trump was found liable for sexually assaulting E. Jean Carroll, defaming her, and now he’s going after her again.” He mentioned that Trump is targeting him because of his support for Carroll’s lawsuit.

Carroll has opted not to make any comments, according to her representative.

Challenges for Prosecutors

Should the Justice Department’s inquiry lead to further charges, prosecutors would need to overcome several obstacles to secure convictions.

In April 2023, Trump’s lawyers accused Carroll of hiding financial support from Hoffman related to her case.

This accusation emerged prior to the first of two trials in Carroll’s civil suits against Trump.