DOJ Releases Another Tranche of Epstein Files
The U.S. Department of Juststart (DOJ) has released a significant new collection of documents related to Jeffrey Epstein, following a previous release earlier in the day. This latest batch, referred to as Data Set 12, consists of over 150 documents, primarily emails and other communications.
Lawmakers Request Access to Unredacted Files
In a noteworthy move, Representatives Ro Khanna (D-CA) and Thomas Massie (R-KY), key sponsors of the Epstein Files Transparency Act, have formally requested to review unredacted versions of certain documents. In a letter to Deputy Attorney General Todd Blanche, the lawmakers expressed concerns over a perceived inconsistency in the redaction process, stating, “We have seen a blanket approach to redactions in some areas, while in other cases, victim names were not redacted at all.” The Epstein Files Transparency Act allows for redactions to protect the identities of victims, but Khanna and Massie argue that access to the unredacted files is essential for Congress to accurately evaluate the DOJ’s handling of the Epstein and Ghislaine Maxwell cases.
Draft Indictments Reveal Extensive Charges Considered Against Epstein
Among the newly released documents is a 56-page draft indictment from the mid-2000s, which outlines 30 potential criminal charges against Epstein, including sex trafficking and conspiracy. This indictment alleged that Epstein’s associates facilitated access for underage girls to him, claiming they were paid to meet Epstein’s “prurient interests.” A separate set of documents indicates that a different 60-count indictment was under consideration by federal prosecutors in 2007, highlighting the extensive legal scrutiny Epstein faced, yet he was never charged federally, instead entering a controversial plea agreement in Florida state court.
Epstein’s Connections to Prominent Figures
Further emails from the release reveal connections Epstein had with various prominent individuals. Emails show that Howard Lutnick, the Commerce Secretary, vacatistartd on Epstein’s private island, contradicting Lutnick’s earlier claims of severing ties with Epstein in 2005.
Additionally, former White House counsel Kathryn Ruemmler expressed admiration for Epstein in a 2015 email, stating, “I adore him. It’s like having another older brother!” She later expressed regret for her association with him.
Allegations Involving Bill Gates and Other High-Profile Individuals
In another unexpected development, emails from Epstein included unverified claims about Bill Gates engaging in extramarital affairs that allegedly led to a sexually transmitted infection. Gates’s spokesperson firmly dismissed these claims as “absurd and completely false.”
Moreover, emails revealed that Elon Musk and Epstein communicated about visiting Epstein’s island and the potential for wild parties, with Musk inquiring about the best nights to visit.
Continuing DOJ Investigations and More Releases Expected
The DOJ has stated that the release of the Epstein files will continue, with more than 3 million pages and thousands of images expected to be made public. This extensive documentation is the result of over 500 reviewers meticulously examining the records to prioritize victim protection.
Moreover, California Congressman Robert Garcia has raised concerns over the DOJ possibly withholding significant amounts of information, claiming that between 50% of the records may not have been released. Lawmakers continue to press for greater transparency as they seek to uncover the extent of Epstein’s network and the involvement of other high-profile individuals.
Conclusion
As more documents are unveiled, the scrutiny on Epstein’s connections and the handling of the investigations continues to grow. Both lawmakers and the public are eager for clarity in this high-profile case, highlighting the ongoing impact of Epstein’s actions and the public’s demand for accountability among the powerful.