Acting AG Todd Blanche recused himself from the investigation, sources said.
May 27, 2026, 9:01 PM
The Department of Justice has launched a criminal investigation into E. Jean Carroll, the former Elle magazine columnist who accused President Donald Trump of sexual assault, according to multiple sources familiar with the matter.
The investigation is allegedly centered around whether Carroll committed perjury during her civil lawsuits against President Trump, after which she was awarded a $5 million judgment, the sources said.
Acting Attorney General Todd Blanche recused himself from the investigation, given his past representation of Trump in the matter, the sources said.
E. Jean Carroll exits the New York Federal Court after former President Donald Trump appeared in court, Sept. 6, 2024, in New York City.
Eduardo Munoz Alvarez/AP
CNN first reported news of the investigation, which sources said is being led by the U.S. Attorney for the Northern District of Illinois, Andrew Boutros.
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The probe is just the latest among a series of investigations launched by the department into political foes of President Trump, a number of which have faced significant obstacles in the courts and grand juries.
A Justice Department spokesperson declined to comment on the investigation to ABC News. Attorneys for Carroll also declined comment.
This is a developing story. Please check back for updates.
