US Justice Department Watchdog Investigates Agency's Handling of Epstein Files Release
The inspector general at the US Department of Justice (DoJ) has commenced an investigation into whether the agency is adhering to a congressional mandate for the release of files concerning the Jeffrey Epstein inquiry. This move follows sustained criticism from members of Parliament regarding the selective public disclosure of documents and the continued opacity surrounding millions of other pertinent files.
The internal watchdog's statement, issued on Thursday, confirmed an examination into the "identification, collection, and production of responsive material" related to Epstein. It further indicated that, "if circumstances warrant," the agency would "consider addressing other issues that may arise during the course of the audit." The review will also scrutinise "guidance and processes for redacting and withholding material consistent with the requirements" stipulated by the law.
The Epstein Files Transparency Act, signed into law by then-President Donald Trump in November 2025 despite initial opposition, requires the Justice Department to release all Epstein and Ghislaine Maxwell-related files within 30 days. The DoJ has since released files in intermittent batches, claiming over three million public documents via its online database. However, approximately 2.7 million remain publicly accessible after some were removed due to privacy complaints. A senior Justice Department official stated in January that the government holds around six million files, with some remaining private to protect survivors' personal information or due to ongoing cases.
Frustration has intensified, with accusations that the Justice Department is shielding powerful individuals linked to Epstein, allegations the department denies. Congressmen Ro Khanna and Thomas Massie, instrumental in advocating for the Epstein law, had pushed for this independent review. Massie notably expressed his anger last month over the lack of prosecutions, stating, "Men need to be perp-walked in handcuffs to the jail, and until we see that here in this country... we don't have a system of justice that's working."
Earlier this month, Trump dismissed Pam Bondi as attorney general, partly citing her handling of the Epstein files. Todd Blanche, Trump's former personal lawyer, succeeded her. Blanche subsequently stated that the Epstein files "should not be a part of anything going forward."
Survivors of Epstein's abuse continue to demand accountability. Annie Farmer, a prominent survivor, criticised a report suggesting some House Oversight Committee lawmakers might endorse a pardon for Maxwell in exchange for her cooperation. Farmer stated, "A pardon is profoundly insulting and a deep betrayal. In the clearest terms possible, this move would be detrimental to survivors." She urged the Justice Department to "permanently close the door on any pardon or commutation for Maxwell and instead open the door on a criminal investigation into the enablers of Jeffrey Epstein and Maxwell's abuse."
