UPDATE: The U.S. Department of Justice has just announced a significant delay in the release of documents related to the late sex offender Jeffrey Epstein, revealing the discovery of over 1 million additional files that may be pertinent to ongoing investigations. This unexpected development means the DOJ may need “a few more weeks” to fully comply with a congressional deadline that was set for last Friday.
The announcement comes amid increasing pressure from a group of U.S. Senators, including Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer, who have called for an independent audit of the DOJ’s handling of these sensitive files. In a letter, the senators emphasized that victims “deserve full disclosure” and are demanding accountability from the Justice Department.
Earlier today, the DOJ confirmed in a social media post that federal prosecutors in Manhattan and the FBI have uncovered over a million more documents related to the Epstein case, contradicting previous statements from officials who claimed to have conducted a comprehensive review months ago. In March, Attorney General Pam Bondi asserted that a “truckload of evidence” had already been compiled for review, leading many to question the DOJ’s transparency.
The DOJ previously stated that it had more than 3.6 million records from Epstein and his associate Ghislaine Maxwell as part of its investigation. However, many of these records were merely copies of material that had already been disclosed. The department is now working “around the clock” to examine the new documents and redact any identifying information in compliance with the Epstein Files Transparency Act, which was enacted last month.
The latest revelations come as victims and lawmakers express frustration with the DOJ’s staggered release of Epstein-related documents, including heavily redacted records. Rep. Thomas Massie of Kentucky, one of the law’s authors, accused the DOJ of breaking the law and missing the deadline. Meanwhile, Rep. Ro Khanna pledged to continue pressuring the department for timely disclosures.
In response to the DOJ’s announcement, Schumer remarked, “A Christmas Eve news dump of ‘a million more files’ only proves what we already know: Trump is engaged in a massive cover-up. The question Americans deserve answered is simple: WHAT are they hiding — and WHY?”
On the heels of this controversy, the White House defended the DOJ’s actions. Spokeswoman Abigail Jackson stated, “President Trump has assembled the greatest cabinet in American history, which includes Attorney General Bondi and her team who are doing a great job implementing the President’s agenda.”
While the DOJ has begun releasing batches of documents, including photographs and transcripts of grand jury testimonies, many lack necessary context. Newly made public records indicate that Epstein may have had more connections to high-profile individuals than previously disclosed, including suggestions of interactions with former Prince Andrew.
The senators’ call for an inspector general audit comes as Schumer introduced a resolution aimed at forcing the DOJ to comply with disclosure requirements. The letter highlights the urgent need for a neutral assessment of the DOJ’s compliance with the law, particularly given the politicization of the Epstein case and the historic reluctance to release files.
As the situation unfolds, the DOJ maintains its commitment to transparency but acknowledges that processing the sheer volume of materials may take additional time. As victims and advocates await further updates, the urgency for full disclosure of Epstein-related records remains at the forefront of public discourse.
This situation continues to develop, with many looking toward the DOJ for timely updates on the release of these critical documents. Stay tuned for more breaking news on this evolving story.
