crimeneutral

Uncovering the Epstein Files: A Massive Review Effort

USA, ManhattanSunday, January 4, 2026
Advertisement

The Department of Justice (DOJ) is undertaking a monumental task: reviewing 5.2 million pages of documents related to Jeffrey Epstein. These files are set to go public under the Epstein Files Transparency Act.

The Task at Hand

  • 400 lawyers have been enlisted to sift through the documents.
  • Their responsibilities include redacting sensitive information and preparing the files for release.
  • The process is expected to take until January 20th.

Balancing Transparency and Protection

The DOJ aims to make the files public while protecting victim identities.

  • Deputy Attorney General Todd Blanche emphasized this commitment.
  • The team includes lawyers from the FBI, Southern District of Florida, and Southern District of New York.

Progress So Far

  • Three batches of files have already been released, totaling hundreds of thousands of pages.
  • These can be accessed in the DOJ's Epstein Library.
  • Warning: The content may include graphic descriptions of sexual assault.

Delays and Challenges

  • The initial deadline for releasing all files was December 19th.
  • The volume of material and the need for careful review caused delays.
  • The discovery of an additional 5.2 million pages has made the task even more daunting.

Political Reactions

  • Lawmakers, including Reps. Thomas Massie and Ro Khanna, are considering holding Attorney General Pam Bondi in contempt due to the delays.
  • Jeffrey Epstein, a convicted sex offender, died in jail in 2019.
  • His former assistant, Ghislaine Maxwell, was convicted in 2021 and is serving a 20-year prison sentence.

Actions