Pete Hegseth paid woman who accused him of sexual assault, lawyer reveals

Pete Hegseth (Image: AP)

Piet HegsethUS President Donald Trump’s pick for defense secretary has paid off a woman who accused him of sexual assault as part of a plea deal, his lawyer said on Saturday. However, Hegseth has said the sexual encounter was “consensual,” according to his attorney.
The Fox News commentator and war veteran faces allegations of sexually assaulting a woman in 2017.
Hegseth, through his lawyer Timothy Parlatore, has denied the allegations. Parlatore claimed the meeting was consensual and claimed Hegseth is a victim of extortion, according to a New York Times report.
“Mr. Hegseth is completely innocent,” Parlatore said. “Not only did she take advantage of him, but we believe she subsequently extorted him, knowing that at the height of the crisis #MeToo movementThe public accusation alone would likely result in his immediate dismissal from Fox News,” the lawyer added.
The Monterey Police Department in California confirmed an investigation into a sexual abuse allegation against Hegseth. The incident reportedly took place at the Hyatt Regency Monterey Hotel and Spa, where Hegseth was speaking at a conference.
The alleged victim, affiliated with the California Federation of Republican Women, filed a complaint four days after the encounter. According to a police statement, bruises were observed on her thigh. However, no charges have been filed and the police report remains confidential.
The The Trump transition team was recently made aware of the settlement Hegseth paid to the woman, according to the New York Times. The settlement includes a confidentiality clause.
Despite the controversy, Trump has continued to support Hegseth. The Fox News host was previously considered for the role of Secretary of Veterans Affairs during Trump’s first term.