In Focus

The Department of Justice’s handling of the Jeffrey Epstein case continues to fail the very people it should protect—the survivors.

On January 30, thousands of documents related to Epstein were released, once again bringing attention to one of the most horrible sex-trafficking cases in history. But as these documents came out, survivors were harmed by the Justice Department’s actions and silence.

Important details identifying survivors were not properly redacted in the released files, putting them at risk of renewed scrutiny and trauma. This isn’t just a minor mistake; it’s a serious breach of trust.

Survivors have spent years asking who helped Epstein and why there hasn’t been more accountability despite clear evidence. Instead, these victims had to witness their trauma being shared publicly once again without any warning or support.

Transparency is important, but it should come with care. Merely dumping files into the public without adequately protecting survivor information spreads misinformation and fuels public curiosity at their expense. The DOJ’s lack of communication has allowed rumors to take over, which distracts from accountability.

The Justice Department should not just release records and walk away. Its role is to protect victims, seek the truth, and show that power doesn’t exempt someone from responsibility. Failing to protect survivor information isn’t just careless; it shows how broken the system is.

Victims of Jeffrey Epstein don’t need more documents. They need accountability, protection, and answers. I find it difficult to believe there’s nothing in these documents that isn’t evidence enough for prosecution. Until the DOJ is ready to provide that, its silence speaks louder than any document ever could.