Justice Department Opens Criminal Inquiry Into Sexual Abuse Accuser

Federal prosecutors have opened a criminal investigation of a woman who won a civil verdict against President Trump after she accused him of sexual abuse. The inquiry marks the latest step in a Justice Department campaign that has focused on individuals described as perceived enemies of the president.

The woman previously prevailed in a civil trial that centered on her accusation of sexual abuse by President Trump. That verdict established liability in a civil proceeding but did not result in criminal penalties.

Officials have not disclosed the specific allegations under review in the criminal inquiry. The investigation follows a pattern of Justice Department actions directed at figures who have publicly opposed the president.