Wed Dec 24 20:57:27 UTC 2025: Here’s a news article summarizing the provided text, formatted for readability:
The Hindu: US Justice Department Uncovers a Million More Epstein Documents, Release Delayed
Washington D.C. – December 25, 2025 – The U.S. Justice Department announced Wednesday that over a million previously undisclosed documents potentially connected to convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein have been discovered. The find will further delay the full release of files related to the investigation, which was mandated by a recent law passed by Congress.
The Trump administration had begun releasing files related to criminal investigations of Epstein in compliance with the congressional mandate, despite reported objections from the former President. The law, passed with bipartisan support, required the release of all documents by December 19th, with provisions for redactions to protect victims.
However, the releases so far have been heavily redacted, sparking criticism and failing to quell a brewing scandal that threatens to impact the Republican party in the leadup to the 2026 midterm elections.
According to a Justice Department statement released on social media, the FBI and the U.S. Attorney’s office in Manhattan uncovered the additional documents. The department has not yet elaborated on the circumstances surrounding the discovery.
“We have lawyers working around the clock to review and make the legally required redactions to protect victims, and we will release the documents as soon as possible,” the statement said. “Due to the mass volume of material, this process may take a few more weeks.”
The original law, passed last month, was intended to shed light on the extent of Epstein’s crimes and the individuals involved. The delay is likely to fuel further speculation and increase pressure on the Justice Department to expedite the release while maintaining victim protection.