A lawyer representing hundreds of Jeffrey Epstein’s victims said Wednesday that the disgraced financier’s estate is in possession of a birthday book allegedly containing a bawdy message and sketch signed by President Donald Trump in 2003, when Epstein turned 50. The claim, made by attorney Brad Edwards during an MSNBC interview, comes amid renewed public scrutiny over Trump’s connections to Epstein and the US Justice Department’s decision to withhold further disclosures about the case, the New York Times reported.
What is the Epstein birthday book?
The birthday book is said to be a collection of personal messages compiled by Ghislaine Maxwell, Epstein’s former girlfriend and convicted accomplice, from Epstein’s wealthy and well-connected associates. According to The Wall Street Journal, the book includes a message from Trump, though the president has strongly denied this and sued the newspaper for defamation.
Trump’s denial and legal response
President Trump, who was informed by Attorney General Pam Bondi earlier this year that his name appears in unreleased case files, has not been accused of wrongdoing. However, the reported contents of the book have added to mounting pressure in Washington over transparency. Trump’s legal team has filed suit against the Journal, claiming the birthday message is fabricated.
What the Epstein estate says
In response to inquiries, the Epstein estate confirmed that it would cooperate with lawful legal requests. Edwards said he believes the estate would turn over the book to federal authorities if asked. The estate is being managed by Epstein’s former lawyer and accountant.
Maxwell’s conviction and continuing investigation
Ghislaine Maxwell is currently serving a 20-year sentence following her 2021 conviction for helping Epstein traffic teenage girls. The Justice Department has indicated it plans to meet with Maxwell to determine whether she can offer further information about others potentially involved. No additional charges have been filed against others so far.
Why this matters now
The revelation about the book’s existence and Trump’s alleged contribution comes just as the Justice Department has said it will not release any more information from its Epstein investigation. The decision has drawn criticism from lawmakers and victims’ advocates, who believe the full scope of Epstein’s network has yet to be exposed. Trump’s denial, combined with the ongoing legal battles, ensures the case remains a political and legal flashpoint.
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