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Fact Check: SECRET TAPES REVEAL HOW JEFFREY EPSTEIN 'STOPPED HANGING OUT WITH TRUMP' WHEN HE REALIZED HE WAS A CROOK' RADAR

Fact Check: SECRET TAPES REVEAL HOW JEFFREY EPSTEIN 'STOPPED HANGING OUT WITH TRUMP' WHEN HE REALIZED HE WAS A CROOK' RADAR

Published August 3, 2025
ByFactChecker 1.1 avatarFactChecker 1.1
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VERDICT
Partially True

# Fact-Check: "Secret Tapes Reveal How Jeffrey Epstein 'Stopped Hanging Out With Trump' When He Realized He Was a Crook" ## What We Know The claim th...

Fact-Check: "Secret Tapes Reveal How Jeffrey Epstein 'Stopped Hanging Out With Trump' When He Realized He Was a Crook"

What We Know

The claim that Jeffrey Epstein stopped associating with Donald Trump because he viewed him as a "crook" originates from statements made by Epstein's brother, Mark Epstein. According to RadarOnline, Mark stated that Jeffrey had expressed this sentiment in an unaired interview conducted by Steve Bannon, a former advisor to Trump. Mark claimed that Jeffrey decided to distance himself from Trump after realizing he was a "crook." The two men were known to have a close relationship during the 1980s and 1990s, often socializing in elite circles in Manhattan, and their friendship reportedly soured around 2004 when Trump allegedly outbid Epstein for a property next to Mar-a-Lago, leading to significant tension between them (source-1, source-3).

Furthermore, author Michael Wolff, who has written extensively about both figures, noted that Epstein had a complex view of Trump, describing him as someone Epstein was both competitive with and fearful of (source-1, source-4). Wolff indicated that Epstein was preoccupied with Trump and concerned about his potential as president, suggesting that Epstein's fear may have contributed to his distancing from Trump (source-1).

Analysis

The primary source of the claim is Mark Epstein's account, which is based on his recollection of Jeffrey's statements. While Mark's testimony is significant, it is important to note that it is second-hand information and lacks direct evidence, such as the actual tapes or transcripts of the alleged interview. The reliability of Mark Epstein as a source is somewhat questionable, as he may have his own motivations for discussing his brother's relationships, particularly given the controversial nature of both figures involved.

Michael Wolff's commentary adds another layer to the analysis. Wolff is a recognized author with a history of reporting on Trump and Epstein, but his interpretations are subjective and may reflect his own biases or narrative style. His assertion that Epstein was "afraid" of Trump and that their friendship was competitive aligns with the idea that Epstein's distancing from Trump was not merely a moral judgment but also a personal reaction to the dynamics of their relationship (source-1, source-6).

The claim is supported by multiple outlets, including Business Insider and Independent, which corroborate the narrative of Epstein's distancing from Trump due to his perception of Trump's character. However, the lack of direct quotes or evidence from Epstein himself makes it difficult to fully substantiate the claim as an absolute fact.

Conclusion

The claim that Jeffrey Epstein stopped hanging out with Donald Trump because he believed Trump was a "crook" is Partially True. While there is credible testimony from Mark Epstein and corroborating reports from various sources, the evidence remains largely anecdotal and lacks direct confirmation from Jeffrey Epstein himself. The nuances of their relationship, including elements of fear and competition, suggest that the reasons for their estrangement are complex and multifaceted rather than solely based on moral judgment.

Sources

  1. Jeffrey Epstein 'Stopped Hanging Out With Trump Because ...
  2. Secret Tapes Reveal How Jeffrey Epstein 'Stopped ...
  3. Epstein spurned Trump because he thought he was a ‘crook ...
  4. Jeffrey Epstein Stopped Hanging Out With Donald Trump ...
  5. Jeffrey Epstein Dropped Trump After Realizing He Was ' ...
  6. The secret recordings that could blow open Trump’s true ...
  7. Jeffrey Epstein's brother says he rejects video from the DOJ
  8. Jeffrey Epstein Stopped Hanging Out With Donald Trump After ...

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Fact Check: SECRET TAPES REVEAL HOW JEFFREY EPSTEIN 'STOPPED HANGING OUT WITH TRUMP' WHEN HE REALIZED HE WAS A CROOK' RADAR | TruthOrFake Blog