Epstein Victims Condemn Justice Department’s Handling of Transcripts

Two victims of Jeffrey Epstein’s abuse have expressed their deep dissatisfaction with the U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ) regarding its request to unseal grand jury testimony related to the case. In letters submitted to the court, both victims criticized what they perceive as a lack of respect for their experiences and the ongoing treatment of the Epstein files as a political issue.

In their correspondence, which remained anonymous and was delivered on August 5, 2023, one victim described the situation as “political warfare.” They emphasized their frustration with the government’s handling of the case, stating, “Dear United States, I wish you would have handled and would handle the whole ‘Epstein Files’ with more respect towards and for the victims.” The victim’s letter highlighted a sense of being manipulated within the political arena, asserting, “I am not some pawn in your political warfare. What you have done and continue to do is eating at me day after day as you help to perpetuate this story indefinitely.”

The second victim echoed similar sentiments, arguing that the DOJ and the FBI appear more focused on protecting “wealthy men” than on ensuring justice for the victims. This individual remarked, “I feel like the DOJ’s and FBI’s priority is protecting the ‘third-party,’ the wealthy men by focusing on scrubbing their names off the files of which the victims, ‘know who they are.’”

While neither letter directly requested that U.S. District Judge Richard Berman keep the transcripts sealed, both victims urged the judge to take necessary measures to protect their identities. One victim suggested involving a third party to review any document releases to guarantee that no victim-related information is disclosed. They emphasized that it is of “upmost priority” for any identifying details to be redacted.

The emotional tone of both letters revealed a profound sense of frustration towards the government’s approach to the Epstein case. One victim articulated their feelings, saying, “I appreciate your time reading my short thoughts and feelings, and my anxiety and frustration is NOT aimed at you, obviously. It is aimed at the very government here, the ones asking to release these transcripts, exhibits, etc., of which the victims are not privy to while they have concluded that there is nothing more to see on the files they hold.”

The letters highlight the ongoing struggle of victims to be treated with dignity and respect in a case that has captured national attention. The victims were given the opportunity to respond to the government’s request to release the grand jury transcripts by the specified date of August 5, 2023.

As the situation develops, the voices of the victims remain critical in addressing the broader implications of the Epstein case and the systemic issues surrounding victim treatment in high-profile legal matters. Their letters serve as a poignant reminder of the human impact behind legal proceedings, emphasizing the need for sensitivity and respect in the pursuit of justice.