WASHINGTON: The US Justice Department released on Friday what it termed as the final and largest collection of records related to late convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein, following a November law requiring all documents connected to Epstein’s case be published. Deputy Attorney General Todd Blanche announced that the newly unveiled cache comprises more than three million pages, approximately 2,000 videos, and over 180,000 images.
The files contain “extensive” redactions, as noted by Blanche, citing legal exemptions that protect certain information, such as details concerning victims or material linked to ongoing investigations. Previous releases had also been heavily redacted, prompting criticism from some congressional members.
During the early 1990s and into the 2000s, Trump held social ties with Epstein but later distanced himself from him. Despite Trump’s initial resistance for months, lawmakers from both parties pressured Congress to pass legislation mandating full disclosure.
Trump has not been formally accused of wrongdoing in connection with Epstein and maintains his denial of any knowledge about the crimes committed by Epstein. Nonetheless, this controversy remains a contentious political issue for Trump, especially since he promised during his 2024 presidential campaign that such documents would be released publicly.
Blanche highlighted some documents being withheld under legal privileges, including attorney-client privilege and work product protections, despite objections from lawmakers who argue the law necessitated the release of internal communications. The Justice Department stated it would furnish Congress with a report summarizing all redactions and withheld records as required by law.
In a statement accompanying Friday’s release, the department noted some documents contained “untrue and sensationalist claims” against Trump that were submitted to the FBI shortly before the 2020 election. Blanche maintained that the Justice Department was not protecting Epstein’s associates or covering up information; instead, he asserted there was no hidden tranche of undisclosed material.
Epstein, a financier with connections to prominent political and business figures in New York, died by suicide in his jail cell in 2019 while awaiting trial on sex trafficking charges. His death has fueled conspiracy theories for years despite being ruled as a suicide.
The Epstein controversy continues to be an issue for Trump, who has seen declining approval ratings on various fronts such as the economy and immigration policy. Blanche defended the department’s release pace, noting it required hundreds of attorneys weeks to review documents before making them public. The law set a December 19, 2025 deadline but officials stated additional time was needed.