New Mexico authorities have launched a criminal investigation and a legislative "truth commission" into Jeffrey Epstein's Zorro Ranch, following the release of millions of documents by the Justice Department in January. The disclosures included an unsubstantiated claim that two "foreign girls" died on the property, prompting state officials to take action.
Part 1: Immediate Action & Core Facts
New Mexico Attorney General Raúl Torrez announced his office is committed to investigating Epstein's activities at the ranch, which had not been searched by law enforcement until March 2024. Survivors, including Maria Benavidez, have come forward to share their experiences, urging accountability for those involved in Epstein's network. Benavidez stated she is willing to testify and believes more people need to be held responsible.
Part 2: Deeper Dive & Context
Survivor Testimonies and Legal Actions
Benavidez, 52, shared her story in a recent interview, emphasizing the importance of survivors being heard. She has not publicly named individuals but insists that justice requires exposing those who enabled Epstein's crimes. The New Mexico Department of Justice and the state Legislature are leading separate but complementary investigations.
Law Enforcement Response
Torrez's office conducted the first-ever search of the ranch in March, highlighting the delayed response to allegations that date back nearly as far as those in Florida. He pledged to prioritize victim voices and follow all leads, regardless of the time or discomfort involved. The investigation is seen as a belated effort to address gaps in earlier federal probes.
Media and Public Scrutiny
The renewed focus on Epstein's New Mexico activities has drawn attention to the ranch's remote location and the lack of prior scrutiny. Hallie Jackson of NBC News visited the site, speaking with survivors and officials about the need for transparency. The investigation has also reignited discussions about the broader network of individuals connected to Epstein, including his deceased associate Ghislaine Maxwell, who is currently imprisoned.