State says withheld records are delaying investigation into alleged crimes at Zorro Ranch
WASHINGTON: The state of New Mexico has filed a lawsuit against the US Department of Justice (DOJ), seeking access to unredacted files related to convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein. State officials argue that the federal agency has obstructed an ongoing investigation by refusing to release documents they say are critical to identifying potential suspects, witnesses and victims.
The lawsuit, filed on Wednesday in the US District Court for the District of Columbia, asks the court to compel Acting US Attorney General Todd Blanche to provide the requested records. New Mexico Attorney General Raul Torrez reopened the state’s Epstein investigation in February, focusing on alleged crimes committed at Epstein’s Zorro Ranch near Stanley, New Mexico.
State officials contend that the undisclosed files could help identify visitors, employees and other individuals who may have participated in or witnessed criminal activity. The lawsuit argues that continued delays have prolonged the suffering of survivors and hindered efforts to pursue accountability.
Justice Department cites legal restrictions
In response, the Department of Justice said it had already provided some materials but could not release additional records because of legal protections covering victims’ identities and existing court orders. A DOJ spokesperson maintained that the agency had no legal obligation to disclose broader investigative files requested by the state.
Torrez said investigators have devoted substantial resources to the inquiry but acknowledged that no charges have been filed because authorities still require access to the withheld documents before determining potential criminal responsibility.
Independent inquiry uncovers new evidence
Meanwhile, New Mexico lawmakers released an interim report from the state’s Truth Commission, an independent investigation examining Epstein’s activities. The report concluded that evidence indicates Epstein abused at least five women and girls at Zorro Ranch between 1996 and 2012, while identifying at least 30 additional individuals who may have been victims, witnesses or facilitators.
Commission officials said more than 100,000 records have been collected through subpoenas, although several federal agencies reportedly declined or failed to comply with requests for additional evidence, including flight records and investigative materials.
State officials also alleged that the Justice Department failed to honor a 2019 agreement under which New Mexico suspended its investigation and transferred evidence to federal authorities in exchange for continued information sharing. Investigators said the passage of time, lost evidence and jurisdictional challenges continue to complicate the case.
