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Justice Department publishes largest batch of Epstein documents
The US Department of Justice (DOJ) made public over 11,000 files tied to deceased financier Jeffrey Epstein on Tuesday, marking the largest single release in an ongoing disclosure effort mandated by new legislation. The documents include FBI investigative records, emails, and internal communications, many of which remain partially redacted.
Redactions spark bipartisan criticism
Lawmakers from both parties have voiced concerns over the extent of redactions in the newly released files. The 2023 law governing the disclosures permits redactions only to protect victims' identities or active criminal probes. Critics argue the DOJ has exceeded these limits, shielding names of potential co-conspirators and legal professionals.
Democratic Representative Suhas Subramanyam, a member of the House Oversight Committee, told the BBC he was "concerned" about redactions that appear to protect non-victims. He noted that the files reference 10 possible co-conspirators previously unknown to the public, with six already subpoenaed in Florida, New York, Boston, and Connecticut.
Trump's name appears frequently in flight records
Former President Donald Trump features more prominently in this release than in prior batches. While many mentions stem from media clippings, a 2020 email from a federal prosecutor in New York revealed Trump flew on Epstein's private jet "many more times than previously reported."
The records show Trump as a passenger on at least eight flights between 1993 and 1996, often accompanied by then-wife Marla Maples, daughter Tiffany, or son Eric. On one 1993 flight, Trump and Epstein were the sole passengers; on another, a third individual-whose name was redacted-was also aboard. Ghislaine Maxwell, Epstein's convicted accomplice, was present on four of these trips.
"The claims are unfounded and false, and if they had a shred of credibility, they certainly would have been weaponized against President Trump already."
US Department of Justice statement
The DOJ emphasized that the files contain "untrue and sensationalist claims" about Trump, submitted to the FBI shortly before the 2020 election. Trump has consistently denied any wrongdoing related to Epstein.
Emails link unidentified sender to Epstein's inner circle
Among the documents, a 2001 email exchange between Maxwell and an individual identified only as "The Invisible Man" drew attention. The sender, using the address abx17@dial.pipex.com, wrote: "Have you found me some new inappropriate friends?" Maxwell replied, "I have only been able to find appropriate friends."
A prior release included a similar email address (aace@dial.pipex.com) listed in Epstein's phone book under "Duke of York," fueling speculation about ties to Prince Andrew. The Duke, who relinquished his royal title in 2020 amid scrutiny over his association with Epstein, has repeatedly denied any misconduct. His representatives were contacted for comment but had not responded by publication.
FBI files name potential co-conspirators
Internal FBI emails from 2019 list 10 individuals as possible co-conspirators in Epstein's crimes. While most names are redacted, two-Maxwell and former Victoria's Secret CEO Les Wexner-were disclosed. An email noted uncertainty about whether Ohio authorities had contacted Wexner, who previously described his ties to Epstein as a source of embarrassment.
Wexner's lawyers stated that a federal prosecutor had confirmed he was "neither a co-conspirator nor a target" of the investigation and had fully cooperated.
Fake documents and conspiracy theories surface
The release included several dubious items, including a forged letter purportedly from Epstein to disgraced gymnastics doctor Larry Nassar. The DOJ confirmed the letter was fake, citing mismatched handwriting, an incorrect return address, and a postmark dated three days after Epstein's death. Nassar, currently imprisoned in Pennsylvania, was not at the Arizona facility listed on the envelope.
Another document referenced a 2021 email from a Florida man who shared a fabricated video depicting an Epstein-like figure in a prison cell. The video, created with 3D graphics, was uploaded to YouTube in 2020. The Bureau of Prisons has stated no footage exists of Epstein's cell on the day of his death.
Transparency demands continue
Victims and lawmakers are pressing for further disclosures, particularly regarding the identities of the 10 potential co-conspirators. The DOJ has pledged to review redaction decisions but faces legal challenges from Congress over compliance with the 2023 transparency law.
