The U.S. Department of Justice has released millions of documents related to the late sexual offender Jeffrey Epstein, marking the largest government release of material since a law passed last year mandated their public disclosure, according to the BBC.
A total of three million pages, 180,000 images, and 2,000 videos were made publicly available on Friday. The release came six weeks after the Department missed a legally mandated deadline, signed into law by President Donald Trump, requiring all Epstein-related materials to be published.
“Today’s release marks the conclusion of an extensive process of document identification and review, ensuring transparency for the American public and compliance with the law,” said Deputy Attorney General Todd Blanche.
Prison and Investigation Details
The documents include details about Epstein’s time in prison, including psychological evaluations, as well as information regarding his death while in custody. They also contain investigative records on Ghislaine Maxwell, Epstein’s associate, who was convicted of aiding in the trafficking of underage girls.
The files contain electronic communications between Epstein and numerous high-profile individuals. Many of these communications date back more than a decade and reveal Epstein’s connections during his legal troubles. In 2008, Epstein was convicted in Florida for soliciting sexual activity from a 14-year-old girl, following a controversial plea deal with prosecutors.
Epstein died in August 2019 while in prison awaiting trial in a major human trafficking case.
Connections to the UK Elite
The files shed light on Epstein’s relationships with members of the British elite. Among them are emails between Epstein and a person labeled “The Duke,” believed to be Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor, discussing a private dinner at Buckingham Palace. In one message, Epstein offered to introduce “The Duke” to a 26-year-old Russian woman. The emails, signed with “A” alongside what appeared to be “HRH Duke of York KG,” were exchanged in August 2010, two years after Epstein’s sentence.
Communication with Sarah Ferguson
Some emails appear to be exchanges between Epstein and Sarah Ferguson, Andrew’s former wife. In a message dated April 4, 2009, signed “Love, Sarah, The Red Head!!,” Ferguson noted she would be in Palm Beach and would like to have tea. The message also referenced ideas for her company, Mother’s Army. Ferguson described Epstein as “my dear, spectacular, and special friend Jeffrey,” called him a “legend,” and wrote that she was “extremely proud” of him. At the time, Epstein was under house arrest.
Financial Links to Lord Mandelson
Other emails show that in 2009, Epstein sent £10,000 to Reinald Avila da Silva, the husband of Lord Peter Mandelson. Da Silva’s message included osteopathy course expenses, bank details, and thanks for Epstein’s help. Epstein replied that he would send the money.
In another email, Lord Mandelson requested to stay at one of Epstein’s properties while Epstein was serving a prison sentence. Mandelson, who was appointed UK Ambassador to the U.S. in 2024, was removed less than a year later after it was revealed he had sent supportive messages to Epstein. He repeatedly expressed regret over the friendship, stating that he “did not witness any offenses.”
Donald Trump Mentioned Hundreds of Times
U.S. President Donald Trump is referenced hundreds of times in the newly released documents. Although he was previously friends with Epstein, Trump stated that they parted ways years ago and denied any knowledge of Epstein’s crimes.
The files also include an FBI list of allegations against Trump, based on unverified and uncorroborated reports, without supporting evidence. The Department of Justice described these claims as “baseless and incorrect,” noting that had they been credible, they would already have been used against Trump.
Elon Musk and Epstein’s Island
The documents contain emails between Epstein and tech billionaire Elon Musk. Musk, who has not been accused of any criminal activity, previously said he declined Epstein’s invitations to visit his island. However, the emails indicate that they discussed potential visits on multiple occasions, including a 2012 message in which Musk asked, “Which day/night will be the craziest party on your island?” There is no evidence that Musk ever visited the island.
Bill Gates Denies Allegations
A spokesperson for Bill Gates rejected claims in the files, including statements about a sexually transmitted disease, calling them “completely false and absurd.” The emails, believed to have been written by Epstein, were never confirmed to have been sent to Gates.
Are All Files Now Released?
It remains unclear whether this is the final release of Epstein’s files. While the Department of Justice asserts that the process is complete, some Democrats warn that roughly 2.5 million pages may still be withheld without proper explanation. Many of the released files still contain extensive redactions, legally permitted to protect victims or ongoing investigations.
