The Justice Department opened a criminal probe in May 2026 examining funding for E. Jean Carroll’s civil lawsuits against President Trump, centered on a 2022 deposition statement about outside support and potential issues involving Reid Hoffman’s nonprofit. Official statements from the Chicago U.S. Attorney’s Office have denied any investigation directly targeting Carroll for perjury, clarifying the focus on possible money laundering, conspiracy, or obstruction tied to the nonprofit instead. No federal charges have resulted. Recent Supreme Court action upheld the $5 million civil judgment while appeals continue on the larger defamation award, with the administration seeking to substitute the United States as defendant under immunity provisions. Traders monitor whether the probe produces indictments or closes without action.