The Justice Department on Friday released a large collection of files related to its investigations into Jeffrey Epstein, making thousands of pages of documents available to the public while withholding others it says could pose ‘national security risks.’
Officials described the disclosure as part of an ongoing effort to increase transparency around one of the most scrutinized criminal cases in recent history.
According to the department, the released materials include investigative records, correspondence, and previously sealed court filings, some of which name individuals who interacted with Epstein or were referenced during federal inquiries. At the same time, prosecutors said a separate set of documents remains ‘classified’ or partially redacted because of ‘security concerns.’
The decision to hold back certain records has already drawn criticism from transparency advocates and some lawmakers, who argue that national security concerns are being used too broadly. Justice Department officials pushed back on that characterization, saying further releases could occur after additional reviews and court approvals.