The release of thousands of pages of documents related to the late sex offender Jeffrey Epstein has left many survivors, lawmakers, and observers disappointed and skeptical, citing extensive redactions and the unexplained removal of certain files.
The release, mandated by an act of Congress directing the Department of Justice (DOJ) to make materials public, has been criticized as incomplete. Lawmakers who pushed for transparency described the DOJ’s efforts as “insincere,” while legal experts warned the heavy redactions could fuel conspiracy theories.
Deputy US Attorney Todd Blanche defended the process on Friday, stating the department identified over 1,200 Epstein victims or relatives and withheld material to protect their identities.
However, the rollout faced further controversy when at least 15 files, including photos from inside Epstein’s properties, became unavailable on the DOJ website on Saturday.
According to CBS News, these included an image of a desk with framed photos of Bill Clinton and the Pope, and an open drawer containing a picture of Donald Trump with Epstein and his associate Ghislaine Maxwell. Other removed files showed a room with a massage table and nude artwork.
In a statement on X, the DOJ said, “Photos and other materials will continue being reviewed and redacted consistent with the law in an abundance of caution as we receive additional information.” The BBC has asked the department for further comment.
The released documents include a photo of Ghislaine Maxwell outside Downing Street and a document alleging Epstein introduced a 14-year-old girl to former President Donald Trump at Mar-a-Lago. Many images feature prominent figures, including former President Bill Clinton, Prince Andrew, and celebrities like Mick Jagger and Michael Jackson.
Being named or pictured in the files is not an indication of wrongdoing. Both Trump and Clinton have denied any knowledge of or involvement in Epstein’s crimes, and they have not been accused of wrongdoing by his victims. Many others identified have also denied any misconduct.
The documents also provide glimpses into Epstein’s lifestyle, showing interiors of his homes, records of his overseas travel, and his associations with powerful and famous individuals.
By James Kisoo
