DOJ Investigates E. Jean Carroll Over Civil Cases Against Trump
The Story
The U.S. Department of Justice has opened an investigation into writer E. Jean Carroll in connection with her successful civil lawsuits against President Donald Trump. Carroll won two separate civil cases against Trump, one in 2023 and another in 2024, after alleging he sexually abused her decades ago. Both sources report that the investigation marks another instance of the Trump administration using the justice system to pursue a political adversary. The probes have not yet produced an indictment, and the outcome remains uncertain. The developments come as separate congressional investigations into the Jeffrey Epstein case also continue, with former Attorney General Pam Bondi testifying this week.
Key Facts
- The U.S. Department of Justice is investigating writer E. Jean Carroll in connection with her civil lawsuits against President Donald Trump.
- Carroll won two civil lawsuits against Trump, one in 2023 and one in 2024.
Conflicting Reports
NPR describes the DOJ action as an “inquiry” into Carroll’s civil cases, while vox.com reports it as a “criminal investigation” specifically centered on a perjury allegation. No other conflicting reports identified across sources.
Still Unclear
- The exact nature and scope of the DOJ investigation remain unclear. (Single-source claim: vox.com says it centers on a perjury allegation over a statement Carroll made in 2022 about outside funding.)
- Whether an indictment will be issued is unknown. (Single-source claim: vox.com reports that no indictment has yet been produced and may not be.)
- The amount of damages awarded to Carroll is reported only by vox.com, which states she won more than $88 million in two judgments that Trump continues to appeal. (Single-source claim)
- NPR reports that former Attorney General Pam Bondi testified behind closed doors in the Epstein investigation and refused to discuss Trump’s role, but no other source covers this testimony.
Misconceptions
No widespread misconceptions addressed in the sources.
Key Figures
E. Jean Carroll (writer and advice columnist), President Donald Trump
Sources: NPR, vox.com
