by Alan Iverson in Politics

Attorney General Pam Bondi released government documents related to Jeffrey Epstein, but the initial batch posted online contained mostly previously public information, including flight logs and a redacted address book. The release, initially touted as "breaking news," included a list of masseuses and an evidence list with items like nude images and sex toys, but its origin wasn't specified. While the Justice Department claimed this showed transparency, the rollout was criticized as mere showmanship, with documents given to conservative influencers before the public. The lack of new information drew criticism, including from Rep. Anna Paulina Luna. Bondi ordered an investigation into why not all documents were released and requested the FBI provide the rest. FBI Director Kash Patel pledged to find any missing records and ensure transparency. The documents are unlikely to satisfy those seeking fresh details about Epstein's crimes and connections to famous people, including mentions of Trump, Clinton, Prince Andrew, and others found in previously released material. Epstein's case has attracted significant attention due to his connections to high-profile individuals and his controversial plea deal in 2008 which led to a lenient sentence. The previously released files included a 2016 deposition mentioning an accuser spending time at Trump's casino but not accusing him of any wrongdoing. Trump himself once called Epstein a "terrific guy", but later said they had a falling out. Thousands of pages of records have been released over the years through various means. A 2023 Associated Press report detailed the final days of Epstein's life in jail, and an Inspector General report found negligence and misconduct leading to his death.