Much of the Department of Justice’s Epstein Library is heavily redacted, making it difficult to understand the full scope and sequence of events from those documents alone.
What is fully available, though? Contemporaneous news coverage.
The reporting in the collection below spans decades and provides historical context and insight into Epstein and his case as things unfolded in real time.
To view larger images of each article, click on the photos in the “view” tab.
"The Big House"
- The Albuquerque Times
- June 10, 1995
A front-page feature examining Jeffrey Epstein’s construction of a massive private residence at the Zorro Ranch near Stanley, highlighting the scale of the estate and surrounding land acquisitions.
"The Return of Ghislane"
- The Evening Standard
- April 24, 1997
A feature profile examining Ghislaine Maxwell’s return to London society following her father Robert Maxwell’s death and financial scandal. The article focuses on her social life, elite connections, and relationship with Jeffrey Epstein.
"Society Snapshots"
- The Palm Beach Post
- February 20, 2000
A “Society Snapshots” column featuring photographs from a charity event at Mar-a-Lago, showing Donald Trump with then-girlfriend Melania Knauss, alongside Prince Andrew, Ghislaine Maxwell, and Jeffrey Epstein. The item notes that Prince Andrew remained largely in the background, at times introducing himself as “Andrew York.”
"She's the Daughter of Robert Maxwell and she's manipulating his jetset lifestyle"
- The Evening Standard
- January 22, 2001
A feature profile of Ghislaine Maxwell describing her jet-set lifestyle and elite social access following her father Robert Maxwell’s death, including frequent travel, luxury yachts, and international gatherings. The article also references Jeffrey Epstein’s role as a close associate of Leslie Wexner.
"Andrew's Fixer"
- The Evening Standard
- January 23, 2001
An examination of Prince Andrew’s close ties with Ghislaine Maxwell, detailing their shared travel and social life across multiple countries and noting Jeffrey Epstein’s constant presence as a financier and facilitator within their circle.
"55M buys New York mag"
- The Daily News
- December 17, 2003
A business news article on Bruce Wasserstein’s $55 million purchase of New York magazine that outlines the bidding process and investment group, naming Jeffrey Epstein as one of the financial backers involved.
"Money man faces charge"
- The Palm Beach Post
- July 24, 2006
News report covering Jeffrey Epstein’s arrest in Palm Beach on misdemeanor prostitution charges following multiple victim allegations. It highlights Epstein’s wealth, legal history, business connections, and his attorney, Jack Goldberg, while noting the case was part of a larger, partly sealed law enforcement investigation.
"Police say lawyer tried to discredit girls"
- The Palm Beach Post
- July 29, 2006
Allegations that Jeffrey Epstein’s defense team, including Alan Dershowitz, sought to undermine teenage accusers during the Palm Beach investigation. The article names key attorneys and law-enforcement figures and references how Epstein’s influence, including ties to Bill Clinton and Donald Trump, shaped the case’s handling.
"Powerful legal team stymies detectives"
- The Palm Beach Post
- August 14, 2006
A report on how Jeffrey Epstein’s legal team stalled the Palm Beach investigation into allegations involving underage girls. It notes Epstein’s ties to Donald Trump and Bill Clinton, identifies Ghislaine Maxwell and key defense attorneys, and describes investigative delays cited by police officials.
"The man who had everything"
- The Palm Beach Post
- August 14, 2006
A combined investigation examining Jeffrey Epstein’s lavish Palm Beach lifestyle and the police probe into allegations that underage girls were recruited at his mansion. It details surveillance and evidence gathered by investigators, names associates including Bill Clinton, Donald Trump, and Prince Andrew, and outlines clashes between Epstein’s legal team and Palm Beach Police Chief Michael Reiter, who criticized State Attorney Barry Krischer and referred the case to the FBI.
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“Sex case raises questions about lesser indictment”
- The Tampa Tribune
- September 3, 2006
An examination of why Jeffrey Epstein received a lesser indictment despite police findings supporting more serious charges involving minors. It outlines the Palm Beach police investigation, notes Chief Michael Reiter’s criticism of State Attorney Barry Krischer, and describes the grand jury process that returned a single charge, while also referencing Epstein’s defense team and political connections.
“Delays in Epstein case unusual, lawyers say”
- The Palm Beach Post
- March 13, 2007
An investigative feature examining Jeffrey Epstein’s fall from elite social circles to criminal conviction and the powerful network around him. It details his relationships with figures including Prince Andrew, Bill Clinton, Ghislaine Maxwell, Ron Burkle, and Les Wexner, outlines allegations that young girls were recruited and exploited, and examines how Epstein avoided more serious charges despite extensive evidence.
“The Epstein Files”
- The Evening Standard
- July 18, 2008
An examination of the unusually slow progress of Jeffrey Epstein’s criminal case months after his arrest on felony solicitation charges. It outlines the Palm Beach police investigation, Chief Michael Reiter’s criticism of State Attorney Barry Krischer and referral to the FBI, names defense attorneys Alan Dershowitz and Jack Goldberger, and notes Epstein’s ties to Bill Clinton and Donald Trump amid speculation about behind-the-scenes negotiations.
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“Imprisoned tycoon gets many 'visitors' in 1st month”
- The Miami Herald
- August 13, 2008
A brief item detailing who visited Jeffrey Epstein during his first month in jail after his guilty plea, including associates such as Sarah Kellen and Nadia Marcinkova and figures from academic and scientific circles, highlighting how his network remained active despite his incarceration.
“Girls’ lawsuit claims sex assaults”
- The Palm Beach Post
- September 11, 2008
A brief report on federal civil lawsuits filed by underage girls accusing Jeffrey Epstein of sexual assault, noting that the plaintiffs sought millions in damages while Epstein was already serving an 18-month sentence and that criminal charges did not end ongoing civil claims.
“Hearing set to consider secrecy of plea bargain”
- South Florida Sun Sentinel
- June 15, 2009
A court challenge over secrecy surrounding Jeffrey Epstein’s plea deal, as a judge scheduled a hearing to decide whether the agreement should be unsealed. The article notes arguments from victims’ attorneys and The Palm Beach Post that the deal was improperly kept secret and raises questions about how it was negotiated and whether Epstein received special treatment.
“Victim: Unseal Epstein document”
- Palm Beach Daily News
- July 16, 2009
A legal fight over access to Jeffrey Epstein’s non-prosecution agreement, as a victim asked the court to unseal the document for use in a civil case. The article notes support from other victims’ attorneys and The Palm Beach Post, opposition from Epstein’s lawyers, and ongoing appeals over whether the agreement should remain confidential.
“From Epstein to Madoff, related lawsuits advance"
- Palm Beach Daily News
- October 18, 2009
A roundup of high-profile legal cases advancing in 2009, including civil lawsuits against Jeffrey Epstein and Bernard Madoff. The article notes that Epstein, recently released from jail after a controversial plea deal, continued to face multiple state and federal civil suits alleging sexual abuse of underage girls, including claims tied to encounters at his Palm Beach estate near Mar-a-Lago. The piece situates Epstein’s ongoing litigation alongside other major financial and criminal cases, underscoring how prominent defendants remained entangled in the courts despite prior convictions or plea agreements.
“Epstein claims Rothstein link in lawsuits”
- South Florida Sun Sentinel
- December 10, 2009
A report on Jeffrey Epstein’s court filings accusing attorney Scott Rothstein of using extortionate lawsuits to force settlements, claims disputed by victims’ attorneys who described the strategy as an effort to discredit accusers. The article names attorneys Bradley Edwards, Sid Garcia, and Spencer Kuvin and references Epstein’s claims involving Donald Trump, Bill Clinton, and David Copperfield as part of the legal dispute.
“Epstein journal’s findings could resurrect abuse case”
- The Palm Beach Post
- March 20, 2010
A stolen journal linked to Jeffrey Epstein that may list additional alleged victims resurfaced after former property manager Alfredo Rodriguez pleaded guilty to obstruction of justice for lying to federal agents and trying to sell it. Victims’ attorneys argue the journal contains information not covered by Epstein’s 2007 non-prosecution agreement and could reopen scrutiny of the case.
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"Stolen journal could lead to new charges for Epstein"
- South Florida Sun Sentinel
- March 21, 2010
A report on a stolen journal linked to Jeffrey Epstein that prosecutors said could contain names of additional alleged victims and details of underage abuse. Authorities disclosed that the journal was taken from Epstein’s Palm Beach home and reviewed during the federal investigation, raising questions about whether evidence existed that went beyond the 2007 non-prosecution agreement. Victims’ attorneys argued the journal pointed to information withheld from investigators and could support new or expanded charges if fully examined.
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“Ex-house manager for Epstein given 18-month sentence”
- The Palm Beach Post
- June 20, 2010
Alfredo Rodriguez, Jeffrey Epstein’s former house manager, was sentenced to 18 months in federal prison for obstruction of justice after admitting he stole Epstein’s journal and tried to sell it. Prosecutors said the journal contained information about alleged victims, raising concerns that key evidence was concealed while Epstein faced multiple civil lawsuits.
"Strange Circles for a Duke"
- The Daily Telegraph
- March 5, 2011
A UK investigation examining Prince Andrew’s social and financial circle, focusing on his continued friendship with convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein. The article maps Epstein’s role as a close associate and facilitator, highlights Ghislaine Maxwell’s presence in Andrew’s orbit, and details shared travel, property use, and social interactions following Epstein’s conviction. It raises concerns about judgment, influence, and reputational risk within royal and diplomatic circles, portraying Epstein as a central figure connecting wealth, power, and access long after his crimes were known.
“Prince's friendship with pedophile causes furer across the pond”
- The Palm Beach Post
- March 9, 2011
Reporting on the international backlash over Prince Andrew’s long-standing association with Jeffrey Epstein after Epstein’s 2008 conviction, citing criticism from British media and Parliament. The article references Virginia Roberts (Giuffre), Sarah Ferguson, and Sarah Kellen, and argues that Epstein received unusually lenient treatment in the U.S., intensifying calls for accountability and further investigation.
“Pols, royals, PBers in Epstein 'Grail”
- The Palm Beach Post
- March 12, 2011
A report on the release of Jeffrey Epstein’s 97-page personal address book listing contact information for political, royal, and business figures. The article names individuals including Donald Trump, Bill Clinton, Prince Andrew, Sarah Ferguson, John Kerry, Tony Blair, and members of the Kennedy family, and references statements by Virginia Roberts in connection with Prince Andrew and Epstein, noting the book became public through a civil lawsuit.
“Epstein files new version of lawsuit”
- The Palm Beach Post
- April 23, 2011
A report on Jeffrey Epstein’s amended lawsuit accusing victims’ attorney Brad Edwards of misusing the court system by threatening to depose Epstein’s associates. The article notes that Epstein named figures including Donald Trump, Bill Clinton, Alan Dershowitz, Bill Richardson, Tommy Mottola, and David Copperfield, while Edwards’ team moved to dismiss the case as an attempt to harass and obstruct victim representation.
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“The billionaire financier, his famous friends, and a very dark secret”
- The Independent
- January 3, 2015
Details of Jeffrey Epstein’s rise among politicians, royalty, and global elites, and how those relationships persisted after his 2008 conviction. The article focuses on Prince Andrew’s continued association with Epstein, Ghislaine Maxwell’s role in recruiting young girls, trafficking allegations involving powerful men, and how Epstein’s wealth and connections shielded him from accountability.
“Reveal why feds didn't prosecute Epstein”
- South Florida Sun Sentinel
- January 8, 2016
Details of the 2007 federal non-prosecution agreement that allowed Jeffrey Epstein to avoid serious federal charges despite evidence involving underage girls. The piece notes how victims later challenged the deal for being kept secret, questions why prosecutors declined harsher charges, and raises concerns about accountability and prosecutorial discretion.
“NY gets rape suit vs. Donald”
- Daily News
- June 21, 2016
Coverage of a New York civil lawsuit accusing Donald Trump of raping a teenage girl at a 1990s party allegedly connected to Jeffrey Epstein. The suit resurfaced during the 2016 campaign after an earlier dismissal, with Trump denying the allegations, and references Epstein’s past conviction, claims of intimidation, and related political fallout.
“Whether Donald or Bill, sexual-harassment allegations go nowhere”
- The Miami Herald
- July 26, 2016
A column arguing that sexual-harassment allegations against powerful men rarely lead to accountability, using Donald Trump and Bill Clinton as parallel examples. It notes how accusations are minimized or overshadowed by political narratives, references Trump’s ties to Jeffrey Epstein alongside Clinton’s history of misconduct claims, and highlights how power and loyalty shape whose allegations are taken seriously.
“Trump”
- The Miami Herald
- September 25, 2016
A profile of Donald Trump’s rise through wealth and elite social circles, noting his past association with Jeffrey Epstein and their overlapping Palm Beach world centered around Mar-a-Lago. It situates Epstein within a broader network of powerful figures connected to Trump and highlights how access and privilege limited scrutiny.
“Yes, Trump a groper and ogled kid”
- Daily News
- October 13, 2016
Reports on multiple sexual-misconduct allegations against Donald Trump that resurfaced during the final weeks of the 2016 campaign, including claims of groping and inappropriate behavior toward women and a minor. The piece ties the accusations to the release of the 2005 Access Hollywood tape, notes renewed attention to a rape lawsuit linked to social circles involving Jeffrey Epstein, and details Trump’s denials as the allegations intensified political fallout just ahead of the election.
“Will Trump be used as witness in Epstein case?”
- Palm Beach Daily News
- May 14, 2017
Covers whether Donald Trump could be called as a witness in Epstein-related civil litigation, outlining his past social ties to Jeffrey Epstein through overlapping Palm Beach circles and Mar-a-Lago. It notes that attorneys describe Trump’s role as peripheral, but that his name appears due to documented associations and testimony from others in Epstein’s network.
“Epstein associate Brunel found hanged in jail”
- The Miami Herald
- February 20, 2022
Reports on the death of Jean-Luc Brunel, a longtime associate of Jeffrey Epstein, who was found hanged in a French jail while awaiting trial on rape and sex-trafficking charges. The article notes accusations that Brunel recruited underage girls for Epstein through his modeling agencies and highlights renewed scrutiny of Epstein’s network as key figures died before trial.
