The US Justice Department released thousands of files related to convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein, but critics say the partial release “grossly fails to comply with both the spirit and the letter of the law.” The documents include never-before-released photographs of former President Bill Clinton with Epstein and a 1996 description of a criminal complaint against Epstein. However, the department withheld more from the documents than required by law and failed to release all files as mandated by bipartisan legislation passed last month.
Some survivors are frustrated with the lack of information in the released documents, which they say do not provide enough details about their own cases. Maria Farmer, an early whistleblower, found vindication when she saw a 1996 FBI document that described a criminal complaint against Epstein related to child pornography.
The Justice Department acknowledged that it had “over-redacted” some files and expressed frustration over the speed of processing. Rep. Robert Garcia called the incomplete file release “absolutely breaking the law.” The department has not found evidence showing Epstein blackmailed prominent figures, fueling calls for more transparency and accountability.
Despite criticism, the Trump administration has framed the release as evidence of its transparency, while criticizing Democrats. A statement from Clinton’s spokesperson accused the Trump administration of “shielding themselves from what comes next” to protect Bill Clinton.
Source: https://edition.cnn.com/politics/live-news/jeffrey-epstein-files-released