DOJ Refuses to Release Unredacted Jeffrey Epstein Files to New Mexico Investigation

The U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ) said Wednesday it cannot legally release unredacted Jeffrey Epstein files requested by New Mexico officials, deepening a dispute over the state's renewed investigation into the late financier and convicted sex offender.

The disagreement follows a letter from New Mexico Attorney General Raul Torrez accusing the DOJ of obstructing the state's criminal investigation by failing to provide the requested records. Torrez argued that the federal government has not meaningfully cooperated with efforts to examine alleged crimes linked to Epstein's former ranch near Santa Fe.

In response, a DOJ spokesperson said federal law, existing court orders, and privacy protections for victims and witnesses prevent the department from releasing millions of unredacted documents. The spokesperson added that the agency will continue to comply with all legal restrictions governing the records.

New Mexico reopened its investigation into activities at Epstein's New Mexico ranch in February, focusing on allegations that he abused women and girls over nearly three decades. According to Torrez, the U.S. Attorney's Office for New Mexico responded to the state's request on July 10 by providing only 31 pages of material, much of which had already been made public, heavily redacted, or consisted of photocopied local news articles.

New Mexico Department of Justice spokesperson Lauren Rodriguez rejected the DOJ's explanation, saying federal prosecutors regularly seek to modify protective orders when sharing evidence with state law enforcement during criminal investigations. She said such cooperation is a standard legal practice and should apply in this case as well.

The ongoing dispute comes as pressure continues to mount on President Donald Trump's administration from Epstein survivors and advocacy groups demanding greater transparency regarding the federal government's handling of the Epstein files. Trump has previously stated that the country should move on from the controversy.

Separately, the New Mexico Legislature is conducting its own investigation into Epstein. Last month, its Truth Commission issued subpoenas to U.S. Attorneys' Offices in three states and the U.S. Virgin Islands, seeking information about past federal investigations and decisions not to pursue charges. The commission is expected to release an interim report later this month, while Attorney General Torrez has not yet announced any investigative findings.