Staff from the US House oversight and judiciary committees visited the Texas prison where Ghislaine Maxwell is serving her sentence, Democratic lawmakers Robert Garcia and Jamie Raskin announced. The visit aimed to investigate Maxwell's transfer to the minimum-security facility and allegations of preferential treatment.
According to the lawmakers, prison staff provided an extensive tour but Bureau of Prisons (BOP) leadership repeatedly shut down questions about Maxwell's treatment, sexual assault allegations, and whistleblower retaliation. The lawmakers expressed serious concerns about the accuracy of information received.
A BOP spokesperson said the agency facilitated a transparent visit and addressed topics to the extent possible, citing restrictions on discussing ongoing investigations or personnel actions. The BOP acknowledged the importance of transparency and committed to working with Congress.
Maxwell is serving a 20-year sentence for her role in Jeffrey Epstein's sex-trafficking scheme. She was transferred from a Florida prison to the Bryan camp last summer, about a week after being interviewed by then-deputy attorney general Todd Blanche. The move sparked backlash, as convicted sex offenders are typically placed in low-security prisons, not minimum-security facilities.
Garcia said the warden confirmed Maxwell is the only convicted sex offender among over 600 inmates and could not explain why she was moved. Staff were not granted access to Maxwell. Blanche defended the transfer, citing safety concerns due to threats.
The visit follows a November letter from Raskin to President Trump, alleging Maxwell received favorable treatment, including custom meals and guest computer access. The investigation continues.
