Lawmaker Demands Release of Epstein Files Amid New Revelations

The top Democrat on the House oversight committee has called for the release of files related to Jeffrey Epstein’s case from Florida Attorney General Pam Bondi. This demand comes in light of new revelations from the memoir of abuse survivor Virginia Giuffre, which was published this week. Giuffre’s book, titled Nobody’s Girl: A Memoir of Surviving Abuse and Fighting for Justice, recounts her experiences of grooming and manipulation by Epstein and his associate Ghislaine Maxwell.

The House oversight committee is currently investigating the government’s handling of Epstein’s prosecution. Epstein, who died in 2019 while in federal custody, has been at the center of numerous allegations regarding sexual abuse and trafficking. In a letter to Bondi, Robert Garcia, the committee’s Democratic ranking member, emphasized the need for further documents in light of Giuffre’s testimony, which he described as “heartbreaking and horrific.” He stated, “Ms. Giuffre clearly contradicts the agency’s claim that the Epstein files did not justify further investigation.”

Garcia’s statement also referenced a subpoena approved by the Republican-led panel in August, urging the Justice Department to comply. He expressed concern over Bondi’s refusal to release the files, questioning her motives regarding the investigation.

The controversy surrounding Epstein’s case intensified in July when the Justice Department announced his death was ruled a suicide and that no list of his clients would be made public. This contradicted previous claims from public figures, including Donald Trump and Bondi, as well as various conspiracy theories suggesting a broader plot involving Epstein.

In response to these developments, the House oversight committee opened its own inquiry into how the government managed Epstein’s case. This investigation has also led to the release of various documents, including a drawing allegedly made by Trump for Epstein’s 50th birthday. So far, tens of thousands of pages have been made public, although many were already available prior to the investigation.

The political implications of these revelations are significant. Three House Republicans have joined Democrats in a petition to force a vote on legislation aimed at releasing files related to the case. This move is expected to gain traction once the ongoing government shutdown concludes.

Giuffre tragically died by suicide in April 2023 at the age of 41. Following the publication of excerpts from her memoir, Prince Andrew relinquished his royal honors and the use of his Duke of York title. He has denied allegations of sexual assault made by Giuffre when she was 17 and settled a civil case without admitting liability for a reported sum of £12 million (approximately $16 million).

As the investigation continues, the House oversight committee remains focused on uncovering the full extent of the government’s role in Epstein’s case and the implications of the allegations made by Giuffre and other survivors. The demand for transparency in this high-profile case underscores the ongoing public interest and concern regarding accountability in matters of sexual abuse and trafficking.