US Attorney for Northern District of Illinois leading criminal probe into E. Jean Carroll: Sources

CHICAGO -- The Department of Justice has launched a criminal investigation into E. Jean Carroll, the former Elle magazine columnist who accused President Donald Trump of sexual assault, according to multiple sources familiar with the matter.

ABC7 Chicago is now streaming 24/7. Click here to watch

The investigation is allegedly centered around whether Carroll committed perjury during her civil lawsuits against President Trump, after which she was awarded a $5 million judgment, the sources said.

Acting Attorney General Todd Blanche recused himself from the investigation, given his past representation of Trump in the matter, the sources said.

CNN first reported news of the investigation, which sources said is being led by the U.S. Attorney for the Northern District of Illinois, Andrew Boutros.

READ MORE | US attorney for Northern Dis. of IL announces 'sweeping reforms to internal grand jury practices'

The probe is just the latest among a series of investigations launched by the department into political foes of President Trump, a number of which have faced significant obstacles in the courts and grand juries.

Boutros issued a statement Thursday, saying "In light of wide-spread reporting and intense media and public interest into the E. Jean Carroll matter in New York, the Chicago U.S. Attorney's Office can confirm that it has not opened-and has never opened-a criminal investigation into E. Jean Carroll. Any claim to the contrary is categorically false."

A Justice Department spokesperson declined to comment on the investigation to ABC News. Attorneys for Carroll also declined comment.

This is a developing story. Please check back for updates.

ABC7 Chicago contribute to this report.