The U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ) has concluded its review of millions of documents related to convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein, with Deputy Attorney General Todd Blanche stating that no new criminal charges are expected. The DOJ released over 3 million pages of records, including emails, photos, and videos, on Friday, January 2, 2026, as part of the Epstein Files Transparency Act (EFTA).
Core Facts:
- The DOJ reviewed over 6 million pages, 2,000 videos, and 180,000 images, with only a small number of documents still pending judicial review due to protective orders.
- Blanche emphasized that while the files contain troubling correspondence and photographs, they do not provide sufficient evidence to prosecute individuals named in the documents.
Deeper Context:
Official Rationale:
Blanche defended the DOJ's handling of the release, noting that redaction errors affected less than 0.001% of the materials. He invited lawmakers to review unredacted materials at DOJ facilities, stating, "We have nothing to hide."
Criticism and Controversy:
Survivors and lawmakers criticized the release, arguing that it exposed victims' identities while protecting powerful figures. Some documents were removed without explanation, including files mentioning President Donald Trump, which alleged sexual assault and human trafficking. Trump has threatened legal action against author Michael Wolff and Epstein's estate, claiming the files absolve him of wrongdoing.
Legal and Political Implications:
The DOJ has disputed claims involving Trump, describing some allegations as "untrue and sensationalist." Blanche acknowledged that the FBI received numerous anonymous tips but found them lacking credibility. The release has reignited debates about accountability for Epstein's associates and the DOJ's transparency efforts.
Key Quotes:
- "There’s a lot of horrible photographs... but that doesn’t allow us necessarily to prosecute somebody." — Todd Blanche, Deputy Attorney General
- "Not only does it absolve me, it's the opposite of what people were hoping." — Donald Trump
- "Survivors are having their names and identifying information exposed, while the men who abused us remain hidden and protected." — Epstein survivors' statement