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Epstein files handling called 'outrageous' by survivors' attorneys
Summary
The Justice Department released about 3 million Epstein-related files while saying some pages were withheld; survivors' attorneys say flawed redactions have exposed victims' identities and are demanding further review.
Content
The US Justice Department released a large tranche of files related to Jeffrey Epstein on Friday, after a law required wider publication. Officials said certain categories of material were withheld, including victim identifying information and pages tied to ongoing cases. Attorneys for survivors counter that redactions were poorly handled and that victims' names and identifying details appeared in the release. Some members of Congress and survivor advocates have asked to review fuller or un-redacted records and to assess the department's compliance.
Known details:
- The Justice Department published roughly three million Epstein-related documents and said some pages were withheld for privacy and ongoing cases.
- Officials identified categories withheld, including personally identifying victim information, medical files, images depicting child sexual abuse, and pages tied to open matters.
- Survivors' attorneys say many redactions failed, resulting in victims' names and identifying details being exposed to the public.
- Lawmakers who sponsored the transparency requirement have requested access to un-redacted material, and the department has set up an email channel to report redaction errors.
Summary:
Officials reported a large document release with specified categories withheld, while survivors' lawyers say the handling included flawed redactions that exposed victims. The Justice Department says it coordinated with victims' lawyers and has an inbox to correct redaction errors. Congressional sponsors have asked for access to fuller records to assess compliance and oversight moving forward.
