Monterey, California – The Monterey Police Department has revealed new details regarding a 2017 sexual assault allegation against Pete Hegseth, President-elect Donald Trump’s nominee for Secretary of Defense. The incident reportedly took place at the Hyatt Regency Monterey Hotel and Spa during a Republican women’s event.
According to the police report, a 30-year-old woman alleged that Hegseth sexually assaulted her in his hotel room. She claimed he blocked the door, took her phone, and refused to let her leave despite her repeated objections. The woman also reported suffering from memory loss and nightmares following the incident.
Hegseth has denied the allegations, asserting that the encounter was consensual. His attorney, Timothy Parlatore, stated that a financial settlement was reached in 2023 to avoid litigation, describing the payment as a response to “blackmail.” Further details about the settlement remain undisclosed.
The revelations have placed intense scrutiny on Hegseth’s nomination. Members of Trump’s transition team expressed frustration over Hegseth’s failure to disclose the incident earlier, with some questioning whether he should remain a nominee. Discussions about potential alternative candidates have reportedly begun.
This controversy has also sparked broader conversations about the vetting process for Cabinet nominees. Lawmakers are calling for stricter background checks to prevent similar situations in the future.