Justice Department Restores Epstein Files Image Featuring Trump After Public Outcry
The U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ) restored an image from the Epstein files that included Donald Trump after initially removing it, stating that the image posed no risk to victims. Deputy Attorney General Todd Blanche clarified that the removal of 16 photos was unrelated to the president and was done at the request of victims' advocacy groups. The investigation into the files remains ongoing, with potential further redactions or reuploads expected.
The initial removal of the images sparked accusations of political interference, given Trump's prior friendship with Jeffrey Epstein. Victims' rights advocate Gloria Allred criticized the handling of the files, highlighting concerns that survivors’ names and nude images may have been improperly exposed due to inadequate redactions.
Additionally, an FBI report from 1996 by Maria Farmer revealed that Epstein stole nude images of her siblings and pointed to FBI inaction, indicating potential ramifications for dozens of teenage victims.
The DOJ has failed to meet disclosure deadlines for the Epstein files, prompting several members of Congress to threaten legal action. However, enforcement remains challenging because the authorities themselves are accused of noncompliance.
