Lawyers representing victims of convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein have condemned the US Department of Justice for only partially releasing investigative documents, accusing the department of repeatedly denying justice. The release, mandated by the Epstein Files Transparency Act by 19 December, fell short of expectations, with Deputy Attorney General Todd Blanche acknowledging that more documents would be released in the coming weeks.
Attorney Spencer Kuvin, representing Epstein survivors, expressed little surprise at the delay, stating that the DOJ has dragged its feet for 18 years. He called on the public to demand accountability, noting that victims have been lied to and denied justice. Gloria Allred, who represents over 20 survivors, questioned whether there was a cover-up and urged full disclosure to reveal powerful individuals involved in sex trafficking.
Survivor Jess Michaels said she felt validated by the DOJ's obfuscation, as it proved her long-standing claims of negligence and corruption. Another survivor, Maria Farmer, through her attorney Jennifer Freeman, described the release as a day of triumph and tragedy, confirming that her 1996 report to the FBI about Epstein and Ghislaine Maxwell was verified in the documents. Farmer expressed redemption but sorrow for other victims harmed by the FBI's inaction.
The Epstein Files Transparency Act allows records to be withheld if they threaten investigations, national security, or identify victims. However, top lawmakers have threatened legal action over the DOJ's failure to meet the deadline. President Trump signed the legislation after campaign promises, but his administration has been criticised for releasing mostly previously public documents.
