Fact Check: "The Epstein client list that Bondi mentioned does not exist."
What We Know
Recent statements from the U.S. Department of Justice (DoJ) and the FBI have confirmed that no "client list" associated with Jeffrey Epstein exists. This conclusion was reached after an extensive review of the evidence related to Epstein's sex trafficking case. According to a memo released by the DoJ, investigators found no "incriminating list" of clients and "no credible evidence" that Epstein blackmailed prominent individuals (BBC, AP News). Epstein, a convicted sex offender, died in a New York prison cell in 2019 while awaiting trial on sex trafficking charges. The memo also stated that the department would not release additional files related to Epstein's case, citing the need to protect victims (Washington Post, PBS).
Analysis
The claim that a client list exists was notably promoted by Attorney General Pam Bondi during a Fox News interview, where she suggested that such a list was "sitting on my desk right now to review" (AP News). However, the recent findings from the DoJ contradict her earlier statements, representing a significant shift in the narrative surrounding Epstein's connections to high-profile individuals.
The memo's assertion that no client list exists is backed by the investigative findings of the FBI and the DoJ, which are generally regarded as credible sources in matters of law enforcement. However, the memo was not signed by any individual official, which raises questions about accountability and transparency (USA Today). Critics, particularly from conservative circles, have expressed outrage over the DoJ's position, alleging a cover-up to protect elites (PBS).
Despite the backlash, the evidence provided by the DoJ and FBI appears to be conclusive in stating that Epstein did not maintain a client list. The lack of credible evidence supporting the existence of such a list undermines the claims made by Bondi and others who suggested otherwise.
Conclusion
Verdict: True
The claim that "the Epstein client list that Bondi mentioned does not exist" is true. The U.S. Department of Justice and FBI have confirmed through their investigations that no such list exists, contradicting earlier statements made by Attorney General Pam Bondi. The findings are based on thorough investigations and are consistent with the broader narrative surrounding Epstein's criminal activities.
Sources
- US justice department finds no Jeffrey Epstein 'client list'
- Epstein 'client list' doesn't exist, Justice Department says, ...
- Justice department says no 'client list' exists in Epstein sex ...
- Epstein client list doesn't exist, DOJ says, walking back ...
- DOJ, FBI review finds no Jeffrey Epstein 'client list ...
- Bondi defends past remarks about Epstein 'client list' amid ...
- Jeffrey Epstein had no 'client list,' died by suicide: DOJ ...
- Pam Bondi's botched handling of the Epstein files
