DOJ Opens Criminal Probe Of E. Jean Carroll Over Possible Perjury
On May 27, 2026, the Justice Department opened a criminal investigation into writer E. Jean Carroll over alleged perjury in her civil suits against former President Donald Trump.[1]
The inquiry was opened by Andrew S. Boutros, the U.S. attorney for the Northern District of Illinois, according to a person with direct knowledge.[1] Acting Attorney General Todd Blanche has recused himself from the matter because he represented Mr. Trump in the Carroll case.[1]
Carroll previously won a $5 million civil judgment in May 2023 after a New York jury found Mr. Trump liable for sexual abuse and defamation.[1] Mr. Trump asked the Supreme Court in November 2025 to overturn that civil judgment.[1]
Opening a criminal inquiry does not mean charges have been filed, and prosecutors typically interview witnesses and review documents before deciding whether to bring charges.
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📌 Key Facts
- As of May 27, 2026, DOJ has opened a criminal investigation into E. Jean Carroll focused on alleged perjury in her civil suits against Donald Trump.
- The inquiry was opened by Andrew S. Boutros, the U.S. attorney for the Northern District of Illinois, according to a person with direct knowledge.
- Acting Attorney General Todd Blanche has recused himself from the probe because he represented Trump in the Carroll case.
- Carroll previously won a $5 million civil judgment in May 2023 after a New York jury found Trump liable for sexual abuse and defamation.
- Trump asked the Supreme Court in November 2025 to overturn that civil judgment.
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