The Epstein files: In a move that could have far-reaching implications for many high-profile politicians and businessmen, the US Department of Justice (DOJ) has officially released thousands of pages of images, phone records and memos from its investigation into notorious sex offender and convicted late financier Jeffrey Epstein.
The long-awaited Epstein files generated widespread attention as people rushed to understand the extent of Epstein’s connections.
While the tranche includes extensive redactions, the US Department of Justice said it would release additional files in the coming weeks.
What are Epstein files?
The Epstein files contain thousands of pages of investigative documents and court records detailing Epstein’s extensive network of associates and celebrities, his criminal activities and his controversial 2008 plea agreement.
The documents could prove key to a deeper look at the systemic failures that allowed the financier to exploit minors for years.
The files also contain material related to Ghislaine Maxwell, Epstein’s convicted associate and one of the key sex offenders.
The DOJ Epstein Library can offer the public glimpses of the infamous Epstein Island, Epstein’s client list and his wider network of associates who ignored the crimes.
How to view Epstein files: See a step-by-step guide here
The U.S. Department of Justice has created an online portal known as the Epstein Library that organizes files into searchable categories.
- First, visit the US DOJ official website and go to the “Epstein Library” section.
- Now select categories such as Court Records, FOIA Release, or Transparency Act Disclosures
- You can download available PDF files and image sets or search within the files
According to reports, several major local news outlets, including CBS News, have also launched searchable databases to make their archives more accessible.
Epstein Associates and Celebrities: Who’s in the Files
Releases under the Epstein Files Transparency Act reveal a wide range of celebrities connected to Epstein through photos, travel records, etc.
Some names include former US President Bill Clinton, Alec Baldwin and Naomi Campbell, along with pictures of Michael Jackson and Diana Ross. Other celebrities and business leaders appear in images in the collection, including Richard Branson, Kevin Spacey and Bill Gates.
Additionally, Bank of America’s statement to private equity titan Leon Black and his wife Debra also surfaced. Many of the records have been redacted to protect the victims, but the files show Epstein’s extensive network across business, politics and entertainment.
