Millions of pages connected to Jeffrey Epstein’s network and sex-trafficking case have been made public. The release covers draft federal indictments that were never filed, private emails, photos, and more. Here’s what’s happening.
Jeffrey Epstein was a financier and convicted sex offender, accused of running a global sex-trafficking network involving underage girls.
He pleaded guilty to state prostitution charges in Florida in 2008 and was indicted on federal sex-trafficking charges in 2019. Epstein died by suicide in a New York jail while awaiting trial.
His longtime associate, Ghislaine Maxwell, was convicted in 2021 for helping him recruit and abuse victims. Epstein’s connections to powerful figures, from politicians to celebrities, made his crimes and eventual death a global scandal, leaving questions about accountability and justice.
The Epstein files include over 3 million pages, 2,000 videos, and 180,000 images gathered by the DOJ, FBI,and prosecutors over years. They cover court records,interviews, emails,photos, and other evidence tied to Epstein and Ghislaine Maxwell, showing the scope of his operations and the people in his inner circle.
The files were released under the Epstein Files Transparency Act, aimed at making public the government’s evidence.
Draft Federal Charges That Were Never Filed
The DOJ files show that in the mid-2000s, prosecutors drafted indictments charging Jeffrey Epstein and three of his assistants with sex trafficking, enticement of minors, and conspiracy. The draft included 32 criminal counts—but the case was never filed. Epstein later made a controversial Florida plea deal, avoiding federal charges.
More Visits on Epstein Island
The documents show that Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick, who is an American businessman and U.S. government official, and his family visited Epstein’s private island in 2012, despite public statements suggesting they cut ties years earlier. The emails outline travel arrangements, raising questions about how close some social connections really were.
Emails Showing Gifts to Steve Bannon
Newly released emails show Epstein sent Hermès Apple Watches to American media executive and political strategist Steve Bannon and his son. Bannon had previously worked with Epstein on a planned documentary project. The exchanges underline how Epstein maintained contact with political figures even after his conviction.
Wael Ghoneim’s Name Appears in Epstein-Linked Invitations
Egyptian activist and former Google executive Wael Ghoneim also appeared in DOJ documents listing invitees to lunches and dinners linked to Jeffrey Epstein. His presence is noted, but the files do not suggest any involvement in the investigation.
Unverified Allegations About Bill Gates
Among the documents are emails Epstein wrote to himself containing sensational claims about Bill Gates’ personal life. Gates’ representatives have called these allegations false. The inclusion of such material shows the files contain both substantive evidence and uncorroborated content.
Tech and Entertainment Figures in Correspondence
The unsealed material shows Elon Musk discussing holiday travel around Epstein’s circle, though Musk says he declined many invitations. There are also text exchanges with American actor Woody Allen. None of these figures has been accused of criminal conduct in connection with Epstein.
Photos of Prince Andrew and Political Reactions
The files include undated images showing former Prince Andrew in proximity to an unidentified woman. British leaders are now urging him to cooperate with U.S. investigators. Separately, the DOJ says some claims about President Trump in the materials are untrue and were included because the law required all submitted material to be released.
Kaaba Cloth Shipment Written Into Emails
One of the most shocking details in the files is email correspondence showing pieces of the Kaaba’s sacred cloth were sent from Saudi Arabia to Epstein in Florida via UAE and Saudi linked business contacts. The messages describe the cloth’s religious significance, though the context and reason for the shipment remain unclear.
