The US Department of Justice announced Wednesday the discovery of over a million additional documents potentially linked to convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein. This development delays the full release of records for weeks as officials redact details to protect victims.
The initial release of files relating to criminal investigations into Epstein, the late American financier with ties to prominent figures, began in compliance with a law passed by Congress last month. The bipartisan law mandated the release of all documents by December 19th, allowing for partial redactions to safeguard victims.
However, the extensive redactions in the released documents have drawn criticism. Concerns are mounting that the disclosures have not diffused the scandal that threatens to overshadow the midterm elections.
In a statement released Wednesday, the Justice Department revealed that the FBI and the US Attorney’s Office in Manhattan uncovered over a million additional documents potentially related to Epstein. The statement did not clarify when or how these documents were found.
Redaction and Victim Protection
“We have attorneys working around the clock to review the documents and conduct the legally required redactions to protect victims,” the department stated. “We are releasing the documents as quickly as possible.”
“Given the sheer volume of material, this process may take a few more weeks.”
Previously, victims of Jeffrey Epstein condemned the partial release of documents by the Justice Department. Approximately 15 victims complained that only a fraction of the documents had been published, citing excessive redaction of the released materials.
