House Oversight Committee Investigates Leslie Wexner
An 88-year-old billionaire, Leslie “Les” Wexner, known for founding L Brands and once leading Victoria’s Secret, is now under investigation by the House Oversight Committee. This comes amid renewed scrutiny surrounding the infamous sex trafficker Jeffrey Epstein, whose crimes have garnered significant media attention recently following the release of extensive documents by the Department of Justice (DOJ).
While Epstein’s notorious actions are widely documented, the focus has shifted to figures in his inner circle and their roles in his ascent to considerable international power until his suicide in 2019, while he awaited trial in Manhattan.
Wexner has been named as an alleged co-conspirator in recently unsealed FBI files from 2019. Although he has not faced any charges associated with Epstein, a representative for Wexner stated that an assistant U.S. attorney cleared him of any involvement in 2019. Still, DOJ documents indicate that Wexner played a significant part in Epstein’s financial empire.
A notable detail is Wexner’s connection to Epstein regarding finances and real estate. Specifically, Wexner is noted to have sold a grand Manhattan townhouse to Epstein, which has been marked as a significant asset in Epstein’s portfolio. Allegations also suggest that Wexner’s involvement extended beyond mere business dealings; a former bodyguard claimed that the mansion was sold for a mere $20, a statement which contrasts sharply with records showing a sale price of $20 million.
Moreover, the FBI’s investigation uncovered that Epstein’s Manhattan residence contained substantial evidence of his illicit activities, including photographs of minors. Allegations have arisen regarding the use of Wexner’s branded aircraft for nefarious purposes, but a spokesperson for Wexner dismissed these claims as unfounded.
The relationship between Wexner and Epstein reportedly deteriorated around the time federal investigations began, with Wexner claiming that Epstein had misappropriated large sums of money from him and his family. He expressed profound shock at the betrayal, reflecting on it as a significant breach of trust.
As investigations continue, it is clear that Wexner’s connections to Epstein raise complex questions regarding accountability and the dynamics of their partnership. Wexner is expected to testify before the Ohio House Oversight Committee soon. Further commentary from his legal team is pending.
