CRIME & LAW

Federal Judges Order Release Of Epstein Files Nationwide

PUBLISHED Dec 9, 2025, 10:52 AM ET

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Federal Judges Order Release Of Epstein Files Nationwide

Media Bias Meter

Sources: 8

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Right 13%

Sources: 8

New York, Federal judges ordered the Justice Department to unseal grand jury transcripts, exhibits and investigative records from Jeffrey Epstein and Ghislaine Maxwell probes, citing the newly enacted Epstein Files Transparency Act. Judges Paul Engelmayer and Richard Berman granted motions to release materials, directing protections to shield victims' identities. Justice Department sought expedited rulings after Congress passed the law and the president signed it; prosecutors said disclosures must proceed under the statute, with some materials subject to exemptions. The law sets public disclosure deadlines and prompted filings in New York and jurisdictions. Based on 6 articles reviewed and supporting research.

By Noormahi M. | JQJO News

Timeline of Events

Mid-2000s: Federal investigations into Epstein (2005 and 2007 references) commenced.
2019: Jeffrey Epstein died in federal custody during the Southern District investigation.
2020: Ghislaine Maxwell was indicted in the New York sex trafficking case.
2021: Maxwell was convicted and later sentenced to 20 years in prison.
November–December: Congress passed the Epstein Files Transparency Act; DOJ sought expedited rulings; judges ordered unsealing with victim protections and set disclosure deadlines.