A federal watchdog will investigate whether the Justice Department lawfully released more than 3 million documents tied to Jeffrey Epstein, Sen. Jeff Merkley announced. Critics say the January disclosure initially included sensitive material — such as email addresses and nude photos — that could identify victims. Survivors have filed lawsuits alleging roughly 100 people were exposed, and the DOJ inspector general will complete an audit of the agency’s compliance.
Watchdog To Probe DOJ Over Release Of 3 Million Epstein Files Amid Claims Victims Were Exposed
Epstein files release will get watchdog investigation
A federal watchdog will examine whether the U.S. Department of Justice complied with the law when it released investigative files related to Jeffrey Epstein, Sen. Jeff Merkley (D-Ore.) announced Tuesday.
In January, the DOJ published more than 3 million documents connected to the Epstein investigation. Officials and critics say the initial release included sensitive material — including email addresses and nude photographs — that could identify both publicly named and non-public victims.
"This independent investigation is an important step in holding this Administration accountable for siding with the rich and powerful to help cover up the abuse of our most vulnerable. I’ll keep fighting to use all the tools at my disposal to deliver justice for Epstein’s victims and transparency for the American people,"
GAO Review Prompted By Senators
Merkley and several other senators formally asked the Government Accountability Office in March to review the DOI’s handling of the records. They contend the department redacted the names of prominent figures and politicians while failing to apply required privacy protections for victims.
Survivors Sue, Inspector General Will Audit
Epstein survivors have filed lawsuits against the Justice Department, alleging the initial disclosure "outed approximately 100 survivors" by publishing private information. Separately, the DOJ inspector general has said it will complete an audit to determine whether the agency followed legal standards and internal policies when preparing the release.
The GAO review and the inspector general's audit together aim to establish whether legal requirements and victim-protection protocols were observed, and to recommend any corrective actions. The outcome could influence how sensitive investigative records are handled and released in the future.
Related Note: Authorities have also pursued unrelated allegations tied to Epstein’s former properties, including news reports about an ex-Epstein employee accused of kidnapping on his former island.
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