New Mexico Investigates Jeffrey Epstein’s Activities
This past Tuesday, New Mexico’s state legislature initiated an investigation into financier and convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein, particularly focusing on his activities at a remote desert ranch that reportedly hosted various clients. The inquiry raises questions about potential negligence from local authorities.
A bipartisan committee comprised of four state representatives is looking into claims that the ranch might have been a site for sexual abuse and trafficking. They’re also trying to understand why Epstein was not listed as a sex offender after pleading guilty to charges relating to an underage girl in 2008, and whether any public officials might have behaved corruptly in this regard.
Democratic state Rep. Marianna Anaya from Albuquerque, part of the commission, encouraged anyone with information about abuses linked to Epstein to come forward during a news conference. She stated, “Those perpetrators cannot act alone. They can’t run a sex ring without help, and it seems we need to hold those who enabled these actions accountable, including perhaps the state itself if needed. If you feel the need to share, we promise confidentiality.”
In recent times, revelations associated with Epstein’s connections have led to the resignation or removal of several prominent figures.
Epstein acquired the expansive Zorro Ranch in New Mexico in 1993 from former Democratic Governor Bruce King, where he constructed a sprawling 26,700-square-foot mansion with a private airstrip.
Recently, Epstein’s estate sold the property to the family of Don Huffines, a Republican candidate for Texas comptroller. Huffines announced on social media that they plan to rename the ranch San Rafael Ranch, after a saint linked to healing, and aim to transform it into a Christian retreat.
Huffines assured that any law enforcement access requests would be met with full cooperation.
Epstein tragically took his own life in a Manhattan jail in 2019 while awaiting trial for numerous charges of sexual abuse and trafficking against underage girls.
Santa Fe state Rep. Andrea Romero, who chairs the truth commission, mentioned that several of Epstein’s abuse survivors have indicated that the sex trafficking operations likely reached his ranch, located around 30 miles south of Santa Fe.
She added, “There have been allegations and rumors about Epstein’s activities here for years, but sadly, federal investigators have struggled to create an official record. This truth commission will aim to fill in those gaps and uncover the truths we need.”
The committee also includes Republican Rep. William Hall, a former FBI agent, and Rep. Andrea Reeve, who has a background in law as a former district attorney. A unanimous vote from attending state lawmakers on Monday enabled the formation of a commission with subpoena powers and a budget exceeding $2 million.
While Epstein was never charged in New Mexico, the state attorney general’s office acknowledged back in 2019 that it was looking into the matter and had interviewed possible victims who visited the ranch.
In 2023, Attorney General Raúl Torrez initiated an investigation into Epstein’s financial dealings and legal responsibilities, which led to a $17 million agreement with two banks committed to fighting trafficking, as mentioned by a spokesperson from Torrez’s office.
