The US Department of Justice has released a massive cache of photographs and documents linked to the late convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein, shedding new light on the disgraced financier's network of powerful associates.
Key Figures Featured in Released Images
Hundreds of images and over 13,000 files were made public just after 9pm on Friday, 19th December 2025, meeting a legal deadline. The material includes previously unseen photographs of high-profile individuals, though authorities stress that inclusion does not imply wrongdoing.
Among the most striking images is one of Ghislaine Maxwell, currently imprisoned for child sex trafficking, standing outside the iconic black door of 10 Downing Street. Another shows her swimming with former US President Bill Clinton. The context for these photos remains unclear.
A new photograph also features Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor, the former Duke of York, lying across several individuals with redacted faces, while Maxwell smiles behind him. The image, undated and shown in a frame, adds to the scrutiny of his past friendship with Epstein, which he has repeatedly stated involved no wrongdoing.
Bombshell Allegations and Revealed Correspondence
The documents contain alarming details beyond the photographs. One alleged victim's interview states that Epstein asked to see girls' identification to "make sure" they were under 18.
Furthermore, an early accuser, artist Maria Farmer, is vindicated by a 1996 report in the files where she complained to the FBI about Epstein's interest in pornography and his demand for photos of "young girls at swimming pools." She alleged he threatened to burn her house down if she spoke out. "I've waited 30 years," a tearful Farmer told the NY Times. "They can't call me a liar anymore."
The files also reveal continued contact between Epstein and British politician Peter Mandelson as late as 2016, years after Epstein's initial conviction. This association led Prime Minister Keir Starmer to dismiss Mandelson from his role as ambassador to the US earlier this year.
Political Reactions and Ongoing Fallout
The release has sparked immediate political commentary. A spokesperson for Bill Clinton, who has never been accused of wrongdoing related to Epstein, reiterated he cut ties before the crimes were known. Meanwhile, a White House spokeswoman highlighted the Clinton photos in a social media post, suggesting the release was politically motivated.
Notably, Donald Trump's name appears minimally, featured on a novelty cheque in one photo. His associates have pointed out the timing of the release, coinciding with US airstrikes in Syria.
This is only the first batch of materials, with more expected in the coming weeks. US lawmakers have criticised the extensive redactions in the released files, arguing they fail to fully comply with disclosure laws.
The fallout continues for those named. Prince Andrew, referenced in emails showing contact with Epstein in 2011 despite public denials, recently relinquished his Duke of York title, stating the accusations distracted from the King's work.
