DOJ Releases Largest Batch of Epstein Case Documents Featuring Trump and Others
The U.S. Department of Justice has released over 11,000 documents related to the Jeffrey Epstein case in its largest batch to date, mandated by a new law requiring public release of investigative files. Many of these documents are heavily redacted, a measure justified by authorities as necessary to protect victims and active investigations. However, lawmakers from both political parties have criticized the extent of the redactions, calling for more transparency.
Notably, the documents include increased mentions of former President Donald Trump compared to previous releases. Prosecutors confirm that Trump flew on Epstein's private jet on eight occasions between 1993 and 1996. Ghislaine Maxwell was aboard at least four of those flights, while other passengers reportedly included Marla Maples, Tiffany Trump, and Eric Trump. Some trips involved individuals who could serve as potential witnesses. The DOJ cautions that certain Trump-related claims found in the documents, which were submitted to the FBI prior to the 2020 election, are untrue or sensationalist and emphasizes that mentions of his name do not imply wrongdoing.
The batch also references a 2001 exchange between an individual labeled 'A' and Maxwell, mentioning 'The Invisible Man' and inappropriate friends. Maxwell responded she had only found appropriate friends. This exchange relates to earlier filings involving the 'Duke of York.'
According to FBI emails included in the release, ten individuals are alleged co-conspirators, with six subpoenas served and four pending—which include one to a wealthy Ohio businessman. Among the named individuals, Maxwell and Les Wexner's names were not redacted; Wexner's legal team denies his status as a co-conspirator and states he cooperated with investigators.
Lawmakers are urging the DOJ for further transparency, especially regarding internal communications and memos related to charging decisions as required under the new law.
Additionally, the documents address misinformation circulating online, including a letter purportedly from Epstein to Larry Nassar that has been deemed fake due to inconsistencies in handwriting and postmarks. The FBI has been asked to analyze the letter. A 2023 Bureau of Prisons report confirms that no video footage of Epstein exists from his time in his cell, contradicting circulated fake videos created using 3D graphics.
