US lawmakers reveal shocking details from unredacted Epstein files, including a 9-year-old victim, hidden names and foreign officials, fuelling demands for transparency.
The Department of Justice earlier released millions of pages of documents, but heavy redactions have angered survivors and political leaders who believe crucial information remains concealed. (Photo: DoJ)
Fresh controversy erupted in the United States after two members of Congress reviewed unredacted sections of the Jeffrey Epstein files and raised serious concerns over hidden names, underage victims, and unexplained redactions. The lawmakers said the documents contained disturbing details that had not been previously made public, sparking new calls for full transparency.
The Department of Justice earlier released millions of pages of documents, but heavy redactions have angered survivors and political leaders who believe crucial information remains concealed.
Republican Thomas Massie and Democrat Ro Khanna addressed reporters after examining portions of the files and said they had seen evidence pointing to multiple potentially incriminating individuals. They claimed that at least six men appeared to be linked to the case, but their identities remained hidden behind redactions.
The lawmakers also revealed that a young child was mentioned in the records, highlighting the scale and seriousness of the allegations tied to Epstein’s network.
The controversy intensified after lawmakers criticised the Department of Justice for releasing heavily censored documents earlier this year. More than three million pages came into the public domain, but many key names and sections remained blacked out.
Survivors and activists have urged authorities to release complete information, arguing that partial disclosures prevent justice and accountability. During a press interaction, concerns about the age of victims emerged as Representative Jamie Raskin described the disturbing content in detail.
“You read through these files, and you read about 15-year-old girls, 14-year-old girls, 10-year-old girls. I saw a mention of a 9-year-old girl today. I mean, this is just preposterous and scandalous.”
Lawmakers also said the files referenced a senior foreign government official currently holding a high position. The claim added an international dimension to the scandal, raising questions about how far Epstein’s influence extended beyond the United States.
Massie emphasised that important names had been hidden and urged authorities to revisit their redaction process to maintain public trust.
Meanwhile, Ghislaine Maxwell appeared before a closed-door hearing on Capitol Hill but declined to answer questions, invoking her right against self-incrimination. Her refusal added to the frustration of lawmakers who want more clarity about Epstein’s operations and associates. Pressure on the Justice Department continues to grow as bipartisan leaders push for expanded disclosures through legislative measures.
The latest developments have again brought attention to Epstein’s high-profile international connections, including controversy involving Prince Andrew. Lawmakers have criticised the silence of influential figures and institutions connected to the scandal, arguing that accountability must extend to everyone named in credible allegations.
The renewed focus on royal links and global figures has kept the case in international headlines.
