Europe seems to be punishing Epstein associates faster than US
Since the Justice Department released its last batch of Epstein files — containing more than 3 million documents, photos and videos — the world has been waiting for the fallout. And while the U.K. saw some on Thursday with the arrest of former Prince Andrew, Americans are still waiting for their country’s major moment.
Prior to the full release, many expected a so-called client list detailing everyone Epstein interacted with and potentially was involved in an alleged sex-trafficking ring. Officials have since said that no such list exists.
U.S. Attorney General Pam Bondi says her department is investigating individuals who may have conspired with convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein. Meanwhile, the U.K. and other European countries have arrested and charged those with connections to Epstein.
Europe takes action
One of the most significant consequences of the Epstein file release was former Prince Andrew’s arrest on Thursday.
Thames Valley Police detained him on suspicion of misconduct in public office, citing his connections to Epstein. The department said it was investigating claims that Epstein transported a second woman to the U.K. for a sexual encounter with Mountbatten-Windsor.
The U.K.’s ambassador to the U.S., Peter Mandelson, was also forced out of his position after the Epstein files showed the two had a friendship. In emails, Mandelson referred to Epstein as his “best pal” and encouraged him to seek an early release from a previous conviction.
In addition to being dismissed from his position, the London Metropolitan Police launched a criminal investigation into his alleged misconduct.
Also in Europe, Norway’s former prime minister, Thorbjorn Jagland, was charged with “gross corruption” in connection with his Epstein ties. DOJ files show that Jagland and Epstein frequently emailed, and officials are looking into “whether gifts, travel and loans were received in connection with his position.”
Slow response in the US
Meanwhile, the U.S. hasn’t formally charged anyone except Ghislaine Maxwell, Epstein’s longtime girlfriend, and Epstein himself. As of Thursday, the only consequences stemming from the files have been job losses.
Numerous Americans in the worlds of business, academia and law have resigned from their positions, but none are facing formal charges.
The House Oversight Committee is continuing to investigate Epstein and his connections, launching probes into some of those mentioned in the files, including former President Bill Clinton and his wife, Hillary.
Republicans have repeatedly suggested that Clinton be further scrutinized, while Democrats continue to call for investigations into Trump’s connection to Epstein.
During testimony before the House Judiciary Committee, Bondi noted, “We have pending investigations in our office,” but did not clarify what type of investigations or who they’re into.
She previously directed the U.S. Attorney’s Office in the Southern District of New York to oversee investigations into Epstein’s connections.
Meanwhile, the FBI compiled a list of accusations against prominent men based on tips and interviews the DOJ has compiled since Epstein’s arrest in 2019. The names stem from the investigation that spanned almost two decades and three presidential administrations.
According to the Miami Herald, the list of accusations targets people like President Donald Trump, Clinton, private-equity investor Leon Black, L Brands founder Les Wexner, banker Jes Staley and others.
Black and Staley have both resigned from their positions but have not faced any criminal charges.
When asked if Epstein trafficked women to anyone other than himself, FBI Director Kash Patel said information is limited, and to his knowledge, there was no one else.
Timing
The differing responses between Europe and the U.S. have caused some to call into question why the Justice Department hasn’t done more, or worked faster, to prosecute those with ties to Epstein.
It’s also led to new legislation launching independent investigations into Epstein. This week, lawmakers in New Mexico passed a bill to launch what it called the first full investigation into what happened at Zorro Ranch, where Epstein is accused of trafficking and assaulting girls and women.
According to Reuters, the legislation established a so-called truth commission. It’s comprised of four lawmakers who will seek to identify ranch guests and state officials who may have known what was going on there.
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Ella Rae Greene, Editor In Chief
