Images of disgraced financier and convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein at his sprawling southern Santa Fe County property, Zorro Ranch, were among the trove of documents released Friday afternoon by the U.S. Department of Justice.
The files include multiple photographs showing women and girls at Zorro Ranch, with their faces redacted for privacy. Among the documents is a letter, also partially redacted, in which the author thanks Epstein for an “adventure” in New Mexico.
“The adventures to the Virgin Islands, West Palm Beach, Las Vegas, and New Mexico have all made this a year to remember,” the letter reads. “My sister had a wonderful time on the Las Vegas and New Mexico trip.”
The released files also include images of Epstein with his dogs, one of which is labeled “JE Zorro with dogs.” Other black-and-white photos from August 2002 show a woman at the ranch with her face obscured by redaction.
Political Connections and Aftermath
The release comes amid scrutiny of Epstein’s connections with political figures. Records show that Governor Bill Richardson of New Mexico met with Epstein multiple times, even after Epstein’s 2008 conviction for sex offenses. Documents indicate that Epstein sought Richardson’s help for Florida clemency.
In response to growing public concern, New Mexico lawmakers have proposed a “truth commission” to investigate alleged sexual abuse at Epstein’s former Santa Fe County ranch.
The revelations also sparked claims of a possible cover-up of Epstein files at the federal level, with critics accusing the White House of withholding information.