New Mexico Sues DOJ Over Unredacted Jeffrey Epstein Files Amid Ongoing Investigation

New Mexico has filed a lawsuit against the U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ), seeking access to unredacted files related to Jeffrey Epstein as part of the state's renewed criminal investigation into the convicted sex offender's activities. State officials argue the DOJ has delayed the probe by refusing to release key documents that could help identify suspects connected to Epstein's New Mexico ranch.

The lawsuit, filed in the U.S. District Court for the District of Columbia, asks the court to order Acting Attorney General Todd Blanche to provide the requested records. According to New Mexico Attorney General Raul Torrez, investigators need the unredacted files to identify visitors, employees, or witnesses linked to alleged sexual abuse at Epstein's Zorro Ranch.

The DOJ said it has already shared some materials but cannot release additional documents because of privacy protections and requirements under the Epstein Files Transparency Act. A department spokesperson said the agency is legally prohibited from disclosing information that could identify victims and argued New Mexico has not presented sufficient legal grounds for broader access.

New Mexico reopened its Jeffrey Epstein investigation in February after previously suspending it in 2019. State officials claim they paused the earlier probe under an agreement to transfer evidence to federal authorities in exchange for continued cooperation and access to information regarding alleged victims and related crimes. The lawsuit alleges the DOJ later failed to honor that arrangement.

Torrez told reporters the investigation has consumed significant state resources but declined to discuss specific findings. He said no criminal charges have been filed because investigators first need access to the withheld federal records.

The state also faces several challenges, including the decades that have passed since the alleged crimes, the reported loss of evidence after Zorro Ranch was sold in 2023, and potential jurisdictional issues surrounding any future prosecutions. New Mexico argues that continued delays in obtaining the files not only hinder the investigation but also prolong the suffering of survivors seeking accountability.