The U.S. Justice Department has initiated the release of investigative files concerning sexual offender Jeffrey Epstein, making hundreds of thousands of documents publicly available after a statutory deadline. These documents include an address book, photographs, and court records, many of which are heavily redacted. The New York Times suggests the initial release offers no new revelations regarding the potential involvement of prominent individuals in the abuse scandal. Deputy Attorney General Blanche cited the need to protect victims’ identities for withholding some records, a stance the Democratic Party criticized as a potential “cover-up” due to staggered releases. While new details on former President Trump’s connections are sparse, the files include new information regarding ex-President Clinton, such as a photo with Ghislaine Maxwell. Both Clinton and Trump’s spokespersons deny prior knowledge of Epstein’s criminal activities. The Justice Department, initially facing resistance from Trump and Republicans, acted following a congressional mandate, though it retains the right to withhold certain sensitive information.

Source: https://www.deutschlandfunk.de/us-regierung-beginnt-mit-freigabe-der-epstein-akten-102.html