Freshly unsealed court documents have thrust Donald Trump back into the orbit of the Jeffrey Epstein scandal, detailing a series of social encounters between the former US President and the disgraced financier.
The 2016 defamation case records, brought by Epstein victim Virginia Giuffre against his accomplice Ghislaine Maxwell, were made public this week. While the files do not accuse Mr. Trump of any criminal activity, they paint a picture of his presence within Epstein's social world.
A Social, Not Criminal, Link
The documents include a deposition from Ms. Giuffre, who states she encountered Mr. Trump at various parties and events hosted by Epstein. Notably, she clarifies that she never personally witnessed Mr. Trump engaging in any illegal behaviour. Another witness, Epstein's former housekeeper Juan Alessi, testified that he would often prepare guest rooms for visitors, including Mr. Trump, at Epstein's Palm Beach residence.
This revelation adds a new layer of social context to Mr. Trump's previously acknowledged association with Epstein, which he has described as a casual acquaintance that soured over a decade before Epstein's arrest.
Contrasting Responses from Political Rivals
The unsealing has inevitably drawn comparisons to the legal troubles of another prominent figure, Prince Andrew, who settled a lawsuit with Ms. Giuffre out of court. The documents also mention former President Bill Clinton, though similarly without allegations of wrongdoing.
A spokesperson for Mr. Trump was quick to distance him from Epstein, stating the two had a falling out years prior and emphasising that Trump was never accused of misconduct. This stands in stark contrast to the continued scrutiny faced by Prince Andrew.
The release of these documents ensures the long-shadow of the Epstein case will continue to touch the highest echelons of power and wealth, keeping the story firmly in the public eye.
