Staff from the US House oversight and judiciary committees have visited the Texas prison where Ghislaine Maxwell is serving her sentence, following allegations of preferential treatment. The Democratic representatives Robert Garcia and Jamie Raskin said the visit to the minimum-security federal prison camp in Bryan aimed to seek answers about Maxwell’s transfer and claims she received special privileges, including a laptop and puppy.
According to the lawmakers, prison staff provided an extensive tour, but Bureau of Prisons (BOP) leadership repeatedly shut down questions or could not provide basic information about Maxwell’s treatment, allegations of sexual assault at the facility, and retaliation against whistleblowers. The lawmakers expressed serious concerns about the accuracy of information received and said their investigation would continue.
A BOP spokesperson said the agency facilitated a transparent visit and addressed topics to the extent possible, but could not comment on ongoing investigations or personnel actions. They 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. Her transfer from a Florida prison to the Bryan facility last summer sparked backlash, as she is the only convicted sex offender among over 600 inmates there. The warden reportedly could not explain why she was moved.
Former deputy attorney general Todd 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 computer access for guests.
