The name of retail mogul Les Wexner has been unredacted from a trove of files related to convicted sex trafficker Jeffrey Epstein, reigniting questions about the billionaire's long association with Epstein. Wexner, whose name adorns several institutions at Ohio State University, granted Epstein power of attorney over much of his wealth in 1991, a move critics say helped facilitate Epstein's influence over powerful figures.
Wexner, 88, has denied any knowledge of Epstein's abuse, stating he cut ties in 2007 and that Epstein stole millions from him. Despite being named as a possible co-conspirator by the FBI in 2019, no charges have been filed. Emails from 2008, just before Epstein pleaded guilty to soliciting a minor, show Wexner writing, 'All I can say is I feel sorry... Always be careful.'
The unredacted files, released by the Department of Justice, include at least half a dozen photos of Wexner. California congressman Ro Khanna listed him as one of six previously redacted names, and Wexner is set to be deposed before an oversight committee. Observers expect more evidence to emerge as further files are released.
Epstein owned two properties in New Albany, Ohio, where Wexner resides on a 340-acre estate. One home was sold to Wexner's wife for $0 in 2007; another palatial mansion was bought from a Wexner-linked company for $3.5m in 1992 and sold in 1998. The town, transformed by Wexner's developments, now hosts a semiconductor plant and data centres.
Donald Trump's ties to Epstein also lurk in the background, with Democrats accusing the Trump administration of attempting to cover up the president's connections. Wexner has cooperated with the FBI and continues to chair the Wexner Medical Center Board at Ohio State University.
