A federal judge has denied a request from two members of Congress, Reps. Ro Khanna (D-Calif.) and Thomas Massie (R-Ky.), to appoint an independent monitor to oversee the Department of Justice’s (DOJ) compliance with the law mandating the release of all files related to the late financier and convicted sex offender, Jeffrey Epstein.
In a court order issued on Wednesday, Judge Paul Engelmayer of the Southern District of New York rejected the request, stating that the DOJ has already taken significant steps to ensure the timely release of the documents and that an independent monitor is not necessary at this time.
The decision comes after Reps. Khanna and Massie filed a lawsuit against the DOJ in October, seeking the release of all documents related to Epstein’s 2008 plea deal, which allowed him to avoid federal charges for allegedly sexually abusing dozens of underage girls.
The plea deal, which was overseen by former U.S. Attorney Alexander Acosta, has come under intense scrutiny following Epstein’s death in August while in federal custody. Many have questioned the leniency of the deal and the potential involvement of other high-profile individuals in Epstein’s crimes.
In their lawsuit, Reps. Khanna and Massie argued that the DOJ’s failure to release all documents related to the case was a violation of the Crime Victims’ Rights Act, which guarantees victims the right to be informed about the progress of their case and to be treated with fairness and respect.
However, Judge Engelmayer’s ruling stated that the DOJ has already made significant efforts to comply with the law, including hiring a dedicated team to review and release the documents, as well as providing regular updates to the victims’ attorneys.
While the decision may be disappointing to some, it is important to note that the DOJ has already released thousands of pages of documents related to the case, shedding light on the extent of Epstein’s crimes and the role of powerful individuals in his inner circle.
Furthermore, the DOJ has assured the court that they will continue to work diligently to release the remaining documents in a timely manner, ensuring that the victims’ rights are protected and justice is served.
In a joint statement, Reps. Khanna and Massie expressed their disappointment with the ruling but also acknowledged the DOJ’s efforts to comply with the law.
“We are disappointed with the court’s decision, but we are encouraged by the DOJ’s commitment to continue releasing the documents in a timely manner,” they said. “We will continue to monitor the situation and hold the DOJ accountable for fulfilling their obligations under the law.”
The decision by Judge Engelmayer is a reminder that the justice system is working to ensure that the victims of Epstein’s heinous crimes are not forgotten and that those responsible are held accountable.
It also serves as a reminder that the fight for justice is ongoing and that we must continue to demand transparency and accountability from our government.
As we await the release of the remaining documents, let us not forget the brave survivors who have come forward to share their stories and seek justice. Their voices must be heard, and their rights must be protected.
In the words of Rep. Khanna, “We owe it to the victims to ensure that all the facts are brought to light and that justice is served.” And with the DOJ’s continued efforts to release the documents, we can hope for a full and thorough investigation into Epstein’s crimes and the potential involvement of others.
In the end, justice will prevail, and the victims of Epstein’s horrific actions will finally find some closure and peace.
