Justice Department Probes E Jean Carroll Amid Trump Allegations

The United States Justice Department has launched an investigation to determine if E Jean Carroll, a renowned advice columnist, committed perjury during civil litigation against Donald Trump. The case dates back to allegations that Trump assaulted her in a Manhattan store three decades ago.

A source familiar with the case, who spoke anonymously, confirmed that the perjury investigation is being led by federal prosecutors in Chicago. Acting Attorney General Todd Blanche, previously a personal attorney for Trump, is reportedly not involved.

The case adds to a number of high-profile investigations initiated by the Justice Department during Trump's tenure, sparking concerns about the independence of prosecutorial decisions from the White House.

In earlier proceedings, a jury in 2023 found Trump liable for sexually abusing Carroll in 1996, awarding $5 million in damages. A subsequent defamation case saw Carroll secure an additional $83.3 million after Trump's online remarks.

Meanwhile, Trump is allowed to delay payment of the awards pending a potential Supreme Court review, having posted a $7.4 million bond as insurance for any interest costs incurred.

(With inputs from agencies.)