Here’s What FBI, DOJ Hid From Its Epstein Files Review
In response to our FOIA lawsuit, the FBI withheld all sorts of material related to its review and redaction of the Epstein files. Intriguingly, the FBI said it searched ‘client lists’ to locate documents.
A billboard in Times Square calls for the release of the Epstein files.
Photographer: Adam Gray/Getty Images North AmericaWelcome back to FOIA Files! A couple of weeks ago, I shared a set of emails that provided you with a peek behind the curtain related to the FBI’s review and redaction of the massive trove of documents that comprise the Epstein files. This week, I’m drilling down a bit more on those emails, which I obtained in response to my Freedom of Information Act lawsuit. I’m also disclosing additional details from other documents I requested that the FBI and Department of Justice withheld and what they reveal about the government’s inspection of the Epstein files. For example, there’s a reference to “client lists.” Read on! If you’re not already getting FOIA Files in your inbox, sign up here.
While we all wait and see if the DOJ will meet its Dec. 19 deadline and turn over the Epstein files to the House Oversight and Government Reform Committee, I’m still trying to cut through the secrecy around the FBI’s review of the files. In particular, I’ve been curious to know what was behind the mad scramble at the FBI to prepare the files for public release, and then why the bureau and DOJ abruptly concluded that disclosure of them would not be “appropriate or warranted” after all.