WASHINGTON (AP) — In a notable development, the Department of Justice (DOJ) has significantly ramped up its review of documents related to the convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein, expanding the total number of related files to a staggering 5.2 million. This increase comes as the DOJ seeks to comply with a congressional law mandating the release of these files, following the growing public outcry for transparency surrounding Epstein's activities and the involvement of high-profile individuals.
The DOJ's extensive review of Epstein's case has surpassed the deadline initially set by Congress and is now over a week late. Reports indicate that more than 400 attorneys are currently engaged in this review process; however, the DOJ does not expect to release further documents until January 20 or 21. This information was relayed by a source who wished to remain anonymous due to the sensitivity of the issue.
The administration's intensified efforts were underscored by Deputy Attorney General Todd Blanche, who described the review as an all-hands-on-deck approach. Blanche noted that legal teams from various divisions, including the FBI and districts in Florida and New York, are working diligently to ensure that sensitive content requiring redactions to protect victims is handled appropriately.
Still, the pace at which information has been released has led to bipartisan scrutiny of Attorney General Pam Bondi. Representative Thomas Massie, a Kentucky Republican, raised questions on social media regarding whether Bondi should face impeachment over the DOJ's delays in fulfilling the transparency mandate. On the other side of the aisle, Senate Democratic leader Chuck Schumer criticized the DOJ, suggesting that the public has been misled about the scope of the documents that would ultimately be disclosed.
The issue has sparked significant legislative attention, with Democrats exploring their options amid dissension within the Republican Party relating to the Epstein scandal. The current political headline reflects broader implications for transparency and accountability, especially as more revelations about Epstein's network could emerge in the coming months.
