A newly released police investigation sheds light on serious allegations against Pete Hegseth, President-elect Donald Trump's pick for defense secretary, stemming from an incident at a California hotel.
According to NBC News, documents from the Monterey Police Department reveal that a woman accused Hegseth of sexually assaulting her in his hotel room following a Republican women's convention in October 2017, with claims that he prevented her exit and took her phone.
The alleged victim, identified only as Jane Doe, reported the incident to medical professionals days after the event, expressing concerns about possible drink tampering and memory gaps. She underwent a sexual assault examination at a hospital on October 12, 2017, where she disclosed her belief that someone may have interfered with her drink during the evening in question.
The police investigation included surveillance footage from the hotel showing Hegseth and the accuser walking together, with their arms interlocked, around 1 a.m. Multiple witnesses provided statements indicating the woman appeared coherent throughout the evening, with at least three individuals noting no signs of intoxication.
The woman told investigators she confronted Hegseth earlier that evening about his treatment of women. According to her account, she consumed champagne at an after-party and additional drinks at the hotel bar where Hegseth was present, after which her memory became unclear.
Hotel staff members interviewed during the investigation offered contrasting observations about the parties involved. While one employee described Hegseth as "very intoxicated," they noted that the woman remained coherent and steady on her feet.
Hegseth, who was not charged following the investigation, recently acknowledged paying an undisclosed settlement amount to his accuser. His attorney, Timothy Parlatore, provided this statement:
This police report confirms what I've said all along. The incident was fully investigated and police found the allegation to be false, which is why no charges were filed.
The former Fox News anchor maintains the encounter was consensual. During his police interview on October 26, 2017, Hegseth described a mutual interaction while acknowledging the complex nature of the situation. He told investigators they both expressed hesitation but continued consensually.
The emergence of these allegations comes at a critical time as Hegseth seeks confirmation for his Cabinet position. He addressed reporters on Capitol Hill after meeting with senators, stating:
As far as the media is concerned, I'll keep this very simple. The matter was fully investigated and I was completely cleared, and that's where I'm going to leave it.
The Trump transition team's handling of these revelations adds another layer to the developing situation. Communications director Steven Cheung defended the nomination, emphasizing their commitment to selecting qualified candidates while acknowledging Hegseth's denial of all accusations.
This case represents one of three high-profile Trump Cabinet picks facing serious allegations of sexual misconduct. The timing of the police report's release has intensified scrutiny of the vetting process for potential administration officials.
The settlement agreement, reached during what Parlatore described as "the height of the MeToo movement," reflects the complex intersection of political appointments and personal conduct allegations.
Pete Hegseth's nomination as defense secretary faces increased scrutiny following the release of a 2017 police investigation detailing sexual assault allegations from a Republican women's convention in Monterey, California. While no charges were filed, the documented police investigation and subsequent settlement payment have become focal points in his confirmation process. The case continues to evolve as Hegseth maintains his innocence while proceeding with Senate meetings for his potential role in Trump's incoming administration.
