Authorities in New Mexico are intensifying efforts to determine how many local women and girls were abused at Zorro Ranch, once owned by convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein. Officials say new testimonies suggest a broader scope of alleged abuse than previously known.
Local victims come forward
State Representative Marianna Anaya confirmed that the Truth Commission investigating Epstein has been contacted by several New Mexico residents claiming abuse at the ranch. Previously, only one local victim had been publicly identified.
Moreover, authorities believe some victims were transported to the remote property, where Epstein and his associates allegedly carried out abuse over decades. The commission is now working alongside the New Mexico Department of Justice to support survivors and assess potential criminal cases against co-conspirators.
In addition, the renewed investigation follows the release of extensive files by the U.S. Department of Justice. Among the documents, one claim alleges that bodies of two girls may have been buried near the ranch, though officials have not confirmed these allegations.
Support services highlight scale
Meanwhile, local support organizations report a surge in individuals seeking help. Maria Jose Rodriguez Cadiz, head of Solace Sexual Assault Services in Santa Fe, said dozens of people came forward in 2019 following Epstein’s arrest.
She estimated that a significant portion of those seeking assistance reported abuse linked to the ranch. However, many did not file police complaints at the time, reflecting broader national trends in underreporting sexual violence.
Furthermore, experts note that increased awareness driven by movements such as #MeToo encouraged more survivors to speak out. Officials now aim to identify victims, provide support, and pursue accountability where possible.
