Sat Nov 22 08:27:07 UTC 2025: News Article:

Epstein Survivors Face Threats, Demand Full Disclosure as File Release Nears

WASHINGTON D.C. – As the U.S. Justice Department prepares to release files related to the late convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein, a group of survivors is bracing for increased threats and demanding full accountability from his enablers.

In a public statement released Thursday, titled “What we’re bracing for,” the survivors, including 18 named individuals and 10 Jane Does, highlighted the death threats and other forms of intimidation they are already facing. They are urging federal and state law enforcement to investigate these threats and provide protection.

The survivors also expressed concern that attempts are being made to blame the victims for their own abuse, echoing Epstein’s past tactics. They are calling on Congress and the public to ensure all materials are released, not just selected portions.

The impending release of the files follows weeks of political debate and was triggered by a bill signed into law by President Trump on Wednesday, compelling the Justice Department to make the records public within 30 days. The files could potentially reveal the identities of numerous high-profile figures in politics, entertainment, and business who were associated with Epstein.

“Years ago, Epstein got away with abusing us by portraying us as flawed and bad girls,” the survivors’ statement reads. “We cannot let his enablers use this tactic to escape accountability now.”

For some survivors, like Marina Lacerda, the file release represents an opportunity to fill in gaps in their own memories. Lacerda, who says she was abused by Epstein at age 14, hopes the files will shed light on the extent of the trauma she endured. “I feel that the government and the FBI knows more than I do, and that scares me, because it’s my life, it’s my past,” she told The Associated Press.

The case continues to draw scrutiny. The death of Virginia Giuffre, another prominent Epstein survivor who reported facing a campaign of intimidation, has heightened concerns for the safety of those who have come forward. Giuffre accused both Epstein and Prince Andrew of sexual abuse.

Epstein was found dead in his jail cell in 2019 while awaiting trial on sex trafficking charges.

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