Fact Check: "Epstein's client list does not exist, according to the DOJ and FBI."
What We Know
Recent investigations by the U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ) and the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) have concluded that Jeffrey Epstein did not maintain a "client list" that could implicate high-profile individuals. This assertion is based on a two-page memo released by the DOJ and FBI, which states that investigators found no "incriminating list" of clients and "no credible evidence" that Epstein blackmailed prominent individuals (US justice department finds no Jeffrey Epstein 'client list', DOJ releases memo on sex offender Jeffrey Epstein files). The memo further supports the conclusion that Epstein died by suicide, countering various conspiracy theories surrounding his death (FBI Memo, July 2025, Jeffrey Epstein had no 'client list,' died by suicide: DOJ).
Analysis
The DOJ and FBI's findings are derived from an exhaustive review of Epstein's files, as stated in the memo (FBI Memo, July 2025). The reliability of this information is bolstered by the official nature of the memo, which is a product of federal investigations. The memo's conclusions are corroborated by multiple reputable news outlets, including NPR, Axios, and USA Today, which all reported on the DOJ's findings shortly after the memo was released.
However, the memo has faced skepticism from some quarters, particularly among supporters of conspiracy theories regarding Epstein's connections to powerful figures. Critics have pointed to past statements by Attorney General Pam Bondi, who suggested that a list might exist, as a source of confusion (US justice department finds no Jeffrey Epstein 'client list'). Bondi later clarified that her comments referred to files related to Epstein's crimes rather than a specific list of clients (DOJ, FBI find no evidence Epstein was murdered, kept ‘client list’).
The sources reporting on this matter are generally credible, with the DOJ and FBI being primary sources of the information. However, the interpretations and reactions from various commentators and political figures may introduce bias, particularly from those who have a vested interest in the narrative surrounding Epstein.
Conclusion
The claim that "Epstein's client list does not exist, according to the DOJ and FBI" is True. The DOJ and FBI have officially concluded that no such list exists, based on a thorough investigation. This conclusion is supported by multiple reliable sources and reflects the findings of federal authorities.
Sources
- FBI Memo, July 2025
- US justice department finds no Jeffrey Epstein 'client list'
- DOJ releases memo on sex offender Jeffrey Epstein files
- Jeffrey Epstein documents: DOJ, FBI conclude no "client list ...
- Jeffrey Epstein had no 'client list,' died by suicide: DOJ ...
- DOJ, FBI find no evidence Epstein was murdered, kept ‘client ...
- Justice Department review finds Jeffrey Epstein had no " ...
- Epstein 'client list' does not exist, DOJ, FBI conclude