Former Fox News host Pete Hegseth, now nominated for U.S. secretary of Defense, is facing controversy stemming from allegations of sexual assault dating back to 2017.

Hegseth was accused of sexually assaulting a woman during an incident at the Hyatt Regency Monterey Hotel and Spa on October 8, 2017, and the woman, referred to as Jane Doe, alleged in a police report that Hegseth might have drugged her during their encounter, as the Daily Mail reports.

At the time of the incident, Jane Doe, then 30, was on a business trip, socializing with co-workers and having champagne.

According to her, Hegseth appeared very drunk and behaved inappropriately with multiple women at the hotel, leading her to confront him.

Confrontation and Subsequent Events

During the confrontation, Jane Doe criticized Hegseth's behavior towards women, calling him a "creeper."

The situation escalated when Hegseth allegedly took her phone and physically prevented her from leaving the room, leading to a sexual encounter that Jane Doe's hazy memory complicates.

The police report details that Jane Doe's recollection of the evening includes ending up in an unknown room without remembering how she got there.

She reported the incident and visited a medical examiner for a rape kit on Oct. 12, 2017.

Meanwhile, surveillance footage from the hotel showed Jane Doe and Hegseth walking together, appearing congenial, which Hegseth later described as consensual interaction.

Legal and Public Reactions

Hegseth has staunchly denied the allegations through his lawyer, Timothy Parlatore, claiming the police investigation deemed the allegations false, leading to no charges being filed. Parlatore also revealed that Hegseth had paid Jane Doe fearing potential job loss.

At the hotel, a police officer reported that Hegseth was seen rubbing women on their legs, which Jane Doe found inappropriate. Her vocal objections included repeatedly saying "no" to Hegseth's advances.

During their encounter, Hegseth purportedly threw a towel at Jane Doe, asking her if she was okay and to "clean it up," a detail that has raised questions about the nature of their interaction.

Political Implications and Hegseth's Background

The allegations surface amid scrutiny over Hegseth's controversial views, particularly his stance against women in combat roles and his support for combat veterans accused of war crimes. His personal life, including three marriages and a public affair with a Fox News producer, has also come under the spotlight.

Trump, who nominated Hegseth, has praised his pick's marriage to Jennifer Rauchet, despite the swirling controversies. Trump's communications director, Steven Cheung, emphasized Hegseth's denial of the accusations and expressed anticipation for his confirmation.

An ally of Hegseth hinted at what may be a broader political strategy to thwart Trump's nominations, reflecting the contentious nature of the confirmation process.

Community and Nationwide Reaction

The story has prompted a wide range of reactions, from support for Hegseth's professional qualifications to concerns about his suitability for a role that demands the highest ethical standards. The confirmation process is expected to be a focal point of debate over Trump's selections for high office.

This case not only highlights the challenges individuals face in proving sexual assault allegations but also the complex dynamics of politics, where personal conduct and professional capabilities are often intertwined.

As the confirmation hearings approach, all eyes will be on how these allegations might affect Hegseth's chances and, by extension, the political landscape surrounding Trump's administration.