By Gloria Nosa
The U.S. Department of Justice has triggered widespread attention and debate following the release of a vast collection of records related to Jeffrey Epstein, the convicted sex trafficker. The documents, released under a law passed by Congress last November, include roughly 3 million pages of files, over 2,000 videos, and 180,000 images, shedding light on Epsteinās network and associations with prominent individuals.
While the files were initially expected to contain records tied to President Donald Trump, they instead revealed communications involving previously unmentioned public figures, igniting scrutiny and controversy.
Among those named is Casey Wasserman, 51, chairman of the Los Angeles 2028 Olympic Organizing Committee. According to reports, emails sent by Wasserman to Ghislaine Maxwell, Epsteinās former associate, contained sexualized language nearly 23 years ago. In a statement, Wasserman expressed regret over the correspondence. No direct evidence of communication between Wasserman and Epstein has been reported, but the revelations have drawn public criticism, particularly as he prepares to promote the LA Olympics at international sporting events.
Hollywood director Brett Ratner, known for blockbuster films including the Rush Hour series, also appears in the released files. A photo shows Ratner with Epstein and a young woman, raising renewed attention due to his prior sexual misconduct allegations during the 2017 #MeToo movement.
International figures are implicated as well. Norwayās Princess Mette-Marit is reported to have exchanged multiple emails with Epstein between 2011 and 2014, some of which suggested a close personal rapport. The princess has since publicly apologized, stating she was unaware of Epsteinās criminal activities at the time.
The files also highlight connections with other prominent figures, including Prince Andrew of the UK, Microsoft co-founder Bill Gates, former President Bill Clinton, and former Harvard President Larry Summers, among others. While inclusion in the files does not indicate criminal involvement, the release has intensified public debate and media scrutiny globally.
Epstein, a former Wall Street financier, died by suicide in August 2019 while in federal custody on charges of child sex trafficking. His death, along with his connections to high-profile individuals, has fueled ongoing investigations and heightened calls for transparency regarding his network.
As the files continue to be examined, the revelations are expected to have lasting implications for political, business, and entertainment circles, as well as prompting further inquiries into Epsteinās associates and activities.
