A newly released police report has unveiled disturbing allegations against Pete Hegseth, President-elect Donald Trump’s pick for defense secretary. The report details a sexual assault accusation from an incident at a 2017 political conference in Monterey, California, though Hegseth was never charged.
The complainant, referred to as “Jane Doe,” accused Hegseth of assaulting her in his hotel room following a conference hosted by the California Federation of Republican Women. The report alleges Hegseth blocked the door, took her phone, and sexually assaulted her. She described being intoxicated and claimed her memory of the night was hazy, suggesting her drink may have been spiked.
Hegseth Strongly Denies the Allegations
Hegseth denied any wrongdoing, insisting he sought consent throughout the encounter. He claimed the woman led him to his room and that their interactions were consensual. Hotel security footage showed the two leaving a bar with their arms locked earlier that evening, appearing amicable.
Hegseth’s lawyer acknowledged a financial settlement was made in 2020 to prevent a lawsuit, citing concerns over reputational damage rather than an admission of guilt. Former President Trump continues to support Hegseth’s nomination, with his transition team emphasizing the lack of criminal charges and Hegseth’s credentials as a combat veteran.
Report Highlights Mixed Witness Testimony
Witness accounts paint a complex picture. One witness described the complainant as flirtatious, while another claimed Hegseth acted aggressively toward women during the conference. A hotel staff member reported that Hegseth appeared “very intoxicated” later that night and caused a disturbance near the pool.
The complainant later told authorities she had limited recollection of the events but remembered saying “no” repeatedly. Medical staff at a hospital four days after the incident flagged the case to law enforcement after the woman sought a sexual assault examination.
Legal and Political Implications
The police classified the alleged offense as “Rape: Victim unconscious of the nature of the act” and initially recommended the case for further review. However, no charges were pursued. With the allegations now public, Hegseth’s nomination faces significant scrutiny as critics question his fitness for the role.
Trump’s team maintains Hegseth’s innocence, framing the allegations as a resolved matter and urging confidence in his ability to lead the Defense Department. Still, the unfolding controversy threatens to cast a shadow over his confirmation process.
