US Justice Department publishes explicit Epstein files, sparks backlash

The US Justice Department published dozens of unredacted nude images on its official website as part of the public release of files related to convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein, a move that has since drawn widespread criticism.

The disclosure was carried out under legal requirements that obligate the department to redact sexually explicit material and any information that could identify victims, The New York Times (NYT) reports.

Despite this, journalists reviewing the uploaded files found nearly 40 explicit images that had not been properly redacted.

The images appear to come from a private photo collection and show nude bodies along with clearly visible faces. The individuals in the photographs appear to be young, although it remains unclear whether they are minors. Some images were reportedly taken on Epstein’s private island, while others were shot in bedrooms and other private spaces.

The Justice Department was required to release all Epstein-related files by December 19, but failed to meet the deadline. The eventual release on January 30 included more than three million pages of documents, as well as approximately 2,000 videos and 180,000 images, according to the department.

Officials said that more than 500 lawyers and document reviewers were involved in the publication process. However, the redaction work has drawn criticism for being inconsistent, with some files concealing names while duplicate documents elsewhere leave the same identities exposed.

After being notified by The New York Times, the Justice Department began removing or further redacting the explicit images. A spokesperson said the department was working around the clock to address victim concerns and ensure compliance with redaction requirements.

The incident has angered some victims, who say their personal information was made public while the identities of powerful individuals mentioned in the files remain protected.

By Jeyhun Aghazada