The US Department of Justice (DOJ) announced on 30/1 the release of 3 million pages of documents, 2,000 videos, and 180,000 images from the files of pedophile billionaire Jeffrey Epstein. This disclosure fulfills obligations under the Epstein Files Transparency Act (EFTA), passed by the US Congress last year. However, during their review of the newly published files on the DOJ website, American reporters discovered nearly 40 unredacted nude images. These photos clearly showed the bodies and faces of young women, some of whom may have been minors.

Following notification from journalists, the US Justice Department removed these images over the weekend and stated it was "working day and night" to process and apply additional redactions. A DOJ spokesperson confirmed, "Once proper redaction is complete, we will re-post the publishable documents." Under the requirements for releasing parts of the Epstein files, the federal government is responsible for redacting sensitive images and information that could identify victims.

The incident drew strong criticism from victims and their representatives. Annie Farmer, who testified in court about being approached, manipulated, and abused by Epstein and his associates as a teenager, described the DOJ's release of unredacted images as "extremely concerning." Farmer stated, "It's hard to imagine releasing their nude photos. The whole world can download them," adding that it made her feel "naive to believe the government would protect victims." Other victims also expressed anger upon finding their names and personal information in the files. Brittany Henderson, a lawyer representing a woman named in the documents despite having no prior public association with Epstein, called the error "unacceptable." Henderson remarked, "We are truly stunned by the level of negligence from the Department of Justice."

Some of the discovered photographs appeared to have been taken on Epstein's private island, while others were captured in bathrooms or other private spaces. These images involved at least seven different individuals; however, reporters did not attempt to identify them.

Deputy Attorney General Todd Blanche previously stated that the White House was not involved in the review process before the files' release. He added that many documents were withheld due to content related to child sexual abuse and obligations to protect victims' rights. Billionaire Epstein, born in 1953, was arrested in New York in 7/2019 on charges of enticing and sexually abusing dozens of minors. He faced 45 years in prison if convicted. While awaiting trial, Epstein committed suicide by hanging in his Manhattan jail cell in New York in 8/2019. Former President Donald Trump was acquainted with Epstein and they often attended parties together. However, Trump severed ties many years before Epstein's arrest and has not been accused of any wrongdoing. President Trump initially opposed the release of the Epstein files but eventually conceded to pressure from Congress, including Republican members, and signed the EFTA into law.

US pedophile billionaire Jeffrey Epstein. Photo: CBC