Washington, DC — The U.S. Department of Justice said Wednesday it may need “a few more weeks” to complete the release of records tied to disgraced financier Jeffrey Epstein, missing a Dec. 19 deadline set by Congress under the Epstein Files Transparency Act. DOJ officials cited the discovery of more than one million additional documents and the need to protect victim privacy as reasons for the delay.
According to the department, newly identified materials were located within the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of New York and the FBI. The Justice Department said attorneys are reviewing the records “around the clock” to identify sensitive information that must be redacted under federal law before public release. Officials did not specify when they became aware of the newly uncovered files.
Several batches of Epstein-related records have already been released in recent days, including photographs, grand jury materials, and documents referencing high-profile figures such as Britain’s Prince Andrew and President Donald Trump. The staggered disclosures have fueled criticism from lawmakers who argue the department is failing to meet legal obligations for transparency.
A group of U.S. senators has urged Acting Inspector General Don Berthiaume to audit DOJ compliance with the law, while Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer introduced a resolution that could open the door to court action if delays continue. Victims’ advocates have expressed mixed reactions, balancing demands for accountability with concerns about retraumatization and privacy.
DOJ officials reiterated that all releasable documents will be made public once the review process is complete.
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