'We trusted the wrong people': Epstein survivors speak to the BBC

BBC News
March 25, 2026
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3 min read

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Epstein survivors discuss what powerful associates knew about his activities with BBC.

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Epstein survivors have told BBC Newsnight they believe powerful figures associated with the late financier knew about his crimes, expressing regret over misplaced trust in those connected to him. The accusation suggests that individuals in Epstein's orbit may have had knowledge of his abuse but failed to act or report it. Jeffrey Epstein died in jail in 2019 while awaiting trial on sex trafficking charges involving dozens of underage girls. The survivors' account underscores ongoing questions about accountability for those who may have facilitated or enabled Epstein's decades-long scheme. The BBC investigation appears aimed at identifying gaps in law enforcement response and determining what information key figures possessed about the abuse.

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