Massive Document Discovery in Epstein Investigation
On Wednesday, the Justice Department revealed it has identified more than one million documents that could be connected to the Jeffrey Epstein case. Officials stated they need additional time to comply with congressional mandates for releasing these files.
In a social media announcement, the department explained it received the materials from both the U.S. attorney's office for the Southern District of New York and the Federal Bureau of Investigation. Processing this extensive collection to meet legal requirements under the Epstein Files Transparency Act is expected to take "a few more weeks."
"We have lawyers working around the clock to review and make the legally required redactions to protect victims, and we will release the documents as soon as possible," the DOJ stated. "Due to the mass volume of material, this process may take a few more weeks. The Department will continue to fully comply with federal law and President Trump's direction to release the files."
The department did not provide immediate clarification regarding the specific nature of these newly discovered documents when questioned for further details.
Ongoing Scrutiny Over Document Releases
This development occurs amid persistent criticism directed at the Justice Department for delays in making all Epstein-related materials public. Epstein, a convicted sex offender, died in jail in 2019. His associate, Ghislaine Maxwell, is currently serving a 20-year prison sentence for sex trafficking and related offenses.
Congress compelled the DOJ to disclose its Epstein files, leading to the gradual release of document batches, many containing significant redactions.
These extensive redactions have sparked bipartisan criticism, with some lawmakers alleging the department is withholding information to shield former President Donald Trump and his associates.
Deputy Attorney General Todd Blanche indicated more documents would become public in the coming weeks, attributing the delay to the department's commitment to protecting "every single victim."
