DOJ Probes Funding Behind Carroll Lawsuit

The U.S. Department of Justice is examining the funding of E.

Jean Carroll's lawsuits against former President Donald Trump, focusing on donations from a nonprofit founded by billionaire Reid Hoffman. This inquiry, confirmed by sources familiar with the matter, represents a shift in Justice Department scrutiny towards private citizens involved in legal actions against Trump.

Jean Carroll

The investigation is being overseen by top department officials in Washington, with acting Attorney General Todd Blanche recused due to prior representation of Trump in related appeals.

Jean Carroll

The inquiry specifically targets American Future Republic, Hoffman's nonprofit, and its financial contributions to Carroll's legal expenses. Prosecutors are also assessing the accuracy of Carroll's statements regarding these donations during civil proceedings. While the U.S. Attorney's Office for the Northern District of Illinois stated it has not opened a criminal investigation into Carroll, initial reports suggested she was a primary target, leading to public backlash.

This development follows a pattern of increased Justice Department activity concerning individuals perceived as adversaries of Trump since his return to office. Critics argue that such investigations, particularly involving private citizens like Carroll, could deter victims of sexual assault from coming forward due to fears of retaliation and disbelief. The scrutiny of Hoffman's nonprofit highlights the broader implications for third-party funding in high-profile legal disputes.