A judge in Florida has mandated the unexpected release of detailed transcripts from the state’s 2006 prosecution of Jeffrey Epstein, a convicted paedophile who received minimal legal consequences.
Epstein struck a deal in 2008 to evade sex trafficking and rape charges, pleading guilty to a lesser offense and serving a 13-month prison sentence.
The nearly 200 pages of documents reveal Epstein’s offenses, including victim testimonies and specifics about payments to underage victims.
Circuit Judge Luis Delgado ordered the release of the 16-year-old documents, citing their content as deeply troubling to moral sensibilities.
Referring to Epstein as “the most infamous paedophile in American history,” the judge criticised the state’s leniency, which has sparked public outrage and undermined trust in the justice system.
Judge Delgado acknowledged Epstein’s notorious reputation for flaunting wealth and socialising with prominent figures, which fueled public curiosity about his preferential treatment during prosecution.
The release coincided with the implementation of a new Florida law allowing disclosure of grand jury documents from 2006, typically kept confidential.
In 2008, Epstein was convicted of soliciting prostitution from a minor, associated with influential figures in business, politics, and entertainment, including Donald Trump, Bill Clinton, and Prince Andrew.
Epstein faced renewed scrutiny in 2018 following media coverage and victim interviews, leading to new criminal charges before his death in 2019 while awaiting trial.
Ghislaine Maxwell, Epstein’s associate, is serving a 20-year sentence for her involvement in his sex trafficking activities.
Nancy Mbamalu
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