US Government Watchdog to Investigate Epstein Files Release

The U.S. Department of Justice’s inspector general has initiated an inquiry into the agency’s adherence to a congressional law mandating the disclosure of documents tied to the Jeffrey Epstein investigation. This move follows mounting scrutiny from lawmakers regarding the timing and scope of file releases, as well as the withholding of millions of other records.

According to the watchdog’s statement, the review will focus on the process of identifying, gathering, and providing materials relevant to Epstein. It also noted that additional concerns may be addressed if they emerge during the audit. The law, which demands the release of all files connected to Epstein and his co-defendant Ghislaine Maxwell within 30 days, was signed into effect in November 2025 after President Donald Trump initially attempted to dissuade its passage.

Since the law’s implementation, the DoJ has published over three million files via its digital repository. However, some documents were removed due to privacy issues raised by survivors, leaving approximately 2.7 million accessible. CBS News, the BBC’s U.S. partner, reported that analysis indicated this figure.

A Justice Department official in January revealed that six million files were in total, but certain ones would stay confidential due to containing personal details of survivors or being linked to ongoing cases. Critics argue this approach may shield influential figures and suspected conspirators, a claim the department has refuted.

Recent actions by the DOJ, such as releasing summaries of interviews with a woman who alleged sexual assault against Trump, have intensified debates. The agency stated these documents were inadvertently withheld. Trump, frequently referenced in the files—including emails from Epstein to others—has denied any wrongdoing.

Two lawmakers instrumental in advancing the transparency law, Democrat Ro Khanna and Republican Thomas Massie, have advocated for the inspector general’s independent assessment. Massie recently told the BBC Newsnight programme:

“Men need to be perp-walked in handcuffs to the jail, and until we see that here in this country… we don’t have a system of justice that’s working.”