Jeffrey Epstein's sex-trafficking investigation began in 1996 when a New York artist alleged he stole nude photos of her sisters. The FBI dismissed the claim, but in 2005, prosecutors identified dozens of underage victims who accused him of abuse. Epstein pleaded guilty to solicitation of prostitution in 2008, serving 13 months before resuming high-profile connections.

In 2025, Attorney General Pam Bondi released flight logs and contact lists, prompting Congress to push for full disclosure. Trump initially opposed releasing files but reversed course in November 2025, signing legislation to unseal records. The Justice Department later confirmed no evidence of blackmail or additional crimes beyond Epstein's actions and associate Ghislaine Maxwell's involvement.