House GOP report on Jeffrey Epstein rips Justice Department, urges further investigation

The House Oversight Committee’s review of the investigation into Jeffrey Epstein blasted the Justice Department’s handling of the case from the outset and in the decades since, and called for federal investigators to take a closer look at the late sex offender and his associates.“One thing is abundantly clear in the Epstein matter: the federal government failed over the course of decades and multiple administrations to ensure justice and protect Epstein survivors,” the committee’s Republicans said in a report released Tuesday.“DOJ must make renewed efforts to provide this needed justice and accountability to Epstein survivors.” “Too many survivors and other witnesses informed this Committee that they were never approached or properly questioned by federal authorities,” the 137-page report continued.

“The DOJ should interview or, in some cases, reinterview key individuals who were part of the inner circle of Epstein and Maxwell,” a reference to Epstein co-conspirator Ghislaine Maxwell.In a statement, Committee Chair James Comer, R-Ky., said, “Epstein operated with impunity, shielded and enabled by powerful connections and a justice system that repeatedly failed his victims.”“The evidence we uncovered makes clear that the Department of Justice must interview or re-interview key witnesses, investigate Epstein associates accused of criminal activity, and ensure survivors have access to their records,” Comer said.In a statement, a Justice Department spokesperson said, “With all due respect, the Chairman’s recommendations have already been addressed.

The Attorney General has repeatedly said that the Epstein case is not closed and there is no statute of limitations on human trafficking.”“The Department will continue following all additional investigative leads in matters relating to Jeffrey Epstein.Any victims with evidence and information are encouraged to reach out to the FBI,” the statement said.Jeffrey Epstein and Ghislaine M...