New Mexico Proposes Truth Commission to Investigate Epstein's Zorro Ranch

Fri Nov 07 2025 06:09:53 GMT+0200 (Eastern European Standard Time)

State legislators in New Mexico are advocating for a truth commission to investigate sex trafficking at Jeffrey Epstein's former Zorro Ranch, seeking accountability and lessons to prevent future abuses.

Following allegations that Jeffrey Epstein engaged in sex trafficking at Zorro Ranch in New Mexico, state legislators propose a truth commission with a budget of $2.5 million to uncover the details of past abuses. The investigation aims to hold accountable those who may have been complicit and to implement measures to prevent similar instances of trafficking in the future. While the proposal gains bipartisan support, it also faces skepticism and questions about the timing and motivation behind the initiative.

SANTA FE, N.M. — The Zorro Ranch in New Mexico, once associated with financier and convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein, is under renewed scrutiny as state legislators propose the establishment of a truth commission aimed at investigating past sex trafficking activities linked to the property.

Democratic state Rep. Andrea Romero reported that several survivors of Epstein's abuse have indicated that illicit activities took place at the Zorro Ranch, a remote estate equipped with a large mansion and runway situated about 35 miles south of Santa Fe. Romero emphasized the need for a comprehensive understanding of the events that occurred at the ranch, stating, There's no complete record of what occurred.

The proposed investigation comes at a cost of $2.5 million and seeks to understand the extent of any wrongdoing and what officials in the state might have known. This initiative positions New Mexico within a series of global investigations into Epstein’s network, which continues to draw attention even after his death in federal custody in 2019 while awaiting trial for multiple sex trafficking charges.

In 2023, following an investigation initiated by Attorney General Raúl Torrez, agreements were reached with financial institutions linked to Epstein, directing $17 million toward combating human trafficking. The investigation revealed that New Mexico's existing laws may have allowed Epstein to violate sex offender registration laws for an extended period.

Legislators from both parties have expressed caution yet supportive sentiments for the proposal. Republican Rep. Andrea Reeb, a former district attorney, highlighted the chance to aid victims and bring transparency to what transpired at the ranch. However, skepticism remains, with Republican Rep. Stafani Lord questioning the timing of the initiative and suggesting a need for accountability in addressing the historical context surrounding Epstein’s operations.

As the truth commission moves toward fruition, plans to establish it will first require legislative approval when the New Mexico legislature convenes in January.