A recent police report obtained by a source sheds light on allegations made by a California woman against Pete Hegseth, President-elect Donald Trump's pick for secretary of defense. The report reveals that the woman accused Hegseth of physically blocking her from leaving a hotel room, taking her phone, and sexually assaulting her despite her repeated objections.
The 22-page report, released by the city attorney’s office of Monterey, California, includes conflicting narratives from both parties involved. Hegseth maintains that the encounter was consensual and that he ensured the woman was comfortable throughout. However, the woman, identified as 'Jane Doe' in the report, expressed distress over the incident and declined to comment when approached by reporters.
The alleged assault reportedly took place in October 2017 at a hotel in Monterey, following a Republican Women's convention where Hegseth had spoken. The report details accounts from conference attendees and hotel staff, as well as video surveillance footage showing some of the interactions between Hegseth and Doe that night.
While Hegseth was not charged with a crime in connection to the allegation, his attorney revealed that a settlement agreement was reached with the accuser, including a monetary payment and a confidentiality clause. The attorney cited concerns over potential repercussions during the #MeToo movement as a reason for the settlement.
Both parties provided contrasting versions of the events leading up to the alleged assault. Doe mentioned feeling uncomfortable with Hegseth's behavior towards other women at the conference, while Hegseth claimed that their encounter was consensual and involved clear communication.
The police report also highlighted Doe's visit to a hospital following the incident, where she underwent a rape kit exam and reported the alleged assault. Hegseth, on the other hand, stated that he and Doe engaged in consensual sexual intercourse that night.
As the details of this case continue to unfold, questions surrounding Hegseth's nomination for secretary of defense and the circumstances of the alleged assault are expected to be central in his upcoming confirmation hearing.
