Epstein's long-time assistant testifies, claims ignorance of his crimes

Lesley Groff, who served as a long-time assistant to the late financier Jeffrey Epstein, testified before the House Oversight and Government Reform Committee on Tuesday. She told lawmakers that she had no knowledge of Epstein's alleged criminal activities during her employment.

Groff's testimony is a key development in the ongoing congressional investigation into Epstein's extensive sex trafficking network. Epstein, who died in jail in 2019 while awaiting trial on federal sex trafficking charges, was accused of abusing numerous young women and girls over several years.

The committee is seeking to understand the full scope of Epstein's operations and identify any individuals who may have facilitated or been aware of his crimes. Groff's role as a close associate placed her in a position to potentially have insights into his activities, making her testimony crucial for investigators.

Her assertion of ignorance, if upheld, could complicate efforts to fully unravel the network. However, her appearance itself signifies the continued efforts by lawmakers to hold individuals connected to Epstein accountable and to shed light on the alleged abuses.

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I did not know about J. Epstein's crimes while working for him.