Pete Hegseth, President-elect Donald Trump’s controversial nominee for secretary of defense, is under intense scrutiny after a newly released police report detailed allegations of sexual assault stemming from a 2017 incident in Monterey, California. The bombshell accusations could derail his nomination and are expected to take center stage during his confirmation hearings.
What the Police Report Reveals
The 22-page police report, obtained through a public records request, lays out conflicting accounts of an alleged assault involving Hegseth and a California woman, identified as Jane Doe. According to Doe, Hegseth blocked her from leaving a hotel room, took her phone, and sexually assaulted her despite her repeatedly saying “no.”
The incident allegedly occurred after Hegseth’s appearance at a Republican women’s convention at the Hyatt Regency Monterey Hotel. Surveillance footage showed the two leaving the bar together and heading toward the pool, arms locked, with Doe smiling. However, Doe claims her memory of the night is hazy and suspects something may have been slipped into her drink.
The Alleged Assault
Doe told police she argued with Hegseth by the pool before being led to his hotel room. Once inside, she claims he physically blocked her from leaving and later assaulted her. She recalls saying “no” multiple times and being unable to resist. The report states she remembered Hegseth ejaculating on her stomach before throwing a towel at her.
Doe’s husband, who was also at the conference, said she returned to their room at 4 a.m., hours after he had grown concerned about her whereabouts.
Hegseth’s Defense
Hegseth maintains the encounter was entirely consensual. He told police that Doe willingly came to his room, stayed of her own accord, and engaged in consensual intercourse. He said he ensured Doe was “comfortable” throughout and noted she exhibited “early signs of regret” after their encounter. Hegseth also admitted to entering a settlement agreement with Doe years later, paying her an undisclosed sum to avoid public allegations during the #MeToo movement.
Why Charges Were Never Filed
Despite the detailed report, Hegseth was never charged. The Monterey County District Attorney’s office has declined to release its memorandum explaining the decision, citing state law.
Fallout Ahead of Confirmation Hearing
The explosive revelations have thrown Hegseth’s nomination into turmoil. Trump’s transition team, reportedly blindsided by the allegations, now faces mounting pressure to reconsider his selection. Critics are calling for a thorough investigation, while Hegseth’s supporters argue the matter was resolved years ago.
As the nation watches closely, this case could shape not only the future of Trump’s Cabinet but also the broader debate over accountability and leadership in public office. Will these allegations derail Hegseth’s nomination? Let us know your thoughts.
