News|Donald TrumpMore than a million Epstein-related documents discovered; release delayedUS Justice Department says it requires weeks to process newly found Epstein-related files under transparency and court rules.
The United States Department of Justice (DOJ) has identified over one million additional documents potentially related to Jeffrey Epstein, the late financier and sex offender. The DOJ announced that it requires additional time to review these documents…
The United States Department of Justice (DOJ) has identified over one million additional documents potentially related to Jeffrey Epstein, the late financier and sex offender. The DOJ announced that it requires additional time to review these documents before proceeding with their release, as mandated by Congress.
The DOJ stated, "The US Attorney for the Southern District of New York and the FBI have informed the Department of Justice that they have uncovered over a million more documents potentially related to the Jeffrey Epstein case." The review process is necessary to comply with the Epstein Files Transparency Act, a law requiring the government to disclose its files on Epstein and his associate, Ghislaine Maxwell.
The DOJ emphasized that their legal team is "working around the clock" to review the documents and make legally required redactions. This process is expected to take a few more weeks due to the volume of material. The Department reiterated its commitment to comply with federal law and directives to release the files.
A group of twelve US senators has urged the Department of Justice's Inspector General to review the department's progress in releasing all Epstein-related records by the congressionally mandated deadline. The senators stressed the need for transparency and an independent audit to provide victims with "peace of mind."
The DOJ announced that it requires additional time to review these documents before proceeding with their release, as mandated by Congress.
Senator Lisa Murkowski, along with 11 Democratic senators, signed a letter requesting Acting Inspector General Don Berthiaume to audit the DOJ's compliance with the Epstein Files Transparency Act. They highlighted the importance of a neutral assessment to ensure compliance with statutory disclosure requirements.
Representative Thomas Massie, a co-sponsor of the transparency act, commented on social media that the DOJ failed to meet the deadline and made illegal redactions. Despite this, the DOJ plans to release records on a rolling basis, citing the need to obscure survivors' names and other identifying details as the reason for delays.
In recent days, additional records have been released, with no specific timeline for future disclosures. Deputy Attorney General Todd Blanche emphasized the importance of protecting victims during this process.
Based on reporting by Al Jazeera.
