New Mexico investigators commenced a search at Jeffrey Epstein’s former ranch on Monday. The late financier and his associates are accused of sexually exploiting women and girls at the high-plains property. This action by New Mexico, governed by Democrats, was prompted by new details from documents released by the U.S. Department of Justice in January. The documents alleged that Epstein directed the burial of two foreign girls near the secluded ranch.
The investigation was reopened by New Mexico Attorney General Raul Torrez last month to probe into the criminal activities of the deceased sex offender at the ranch located 48 kilometers south of Santa Fe. The New Mexico Department of Justice stated its commitment to keeping the public informed, supporting survivors, and pursuing the truth.
Witnesses observed government vehicles, including one with a paw-print symbol, leaving the ranch on Monday. State police and a county fire and rescue vehicle were also present at the scene. New Mexico had previously closed its investigation into Epstein in 2019 at the request of federal authorities, without conducting a thorough examination of the alleged assaults by Epstein, Ghislaine Maxwell, and visitors to the ranch.
In a groundbreaking move, New Mexico established a legislative “truth commission” to uncover any potential public corruption that allowed Epstein to operate discreetly at the ranch for over two decades until his passing in 2019. The property was sold by Epstein’s estate in 2023 to Don Huffines, a Texas businessman, who renamed it San Rafael Ranch. The new owners are cooperating with the investigation and have granted access for the search.
The release of additional files on January 30 shed light on Epstein’s social connections with politicians, business figures, and scientists who frequented the ranch. Reuters/Ipsos polling indicates that a majority of Americans perceive the Epstein case as emblematic of the lack of accountability for wealthy and influential individuals.