Jump to content

Death of Jeffrey Epstein: Difference between revisions

Coordinates: 40°38′14″N 74°04′36″W / 40.63716°N 74.07674°W / 40.63716; -74.07674
Page semi-protected
From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
Browse history interactively
← Previous editNext edit →
Content deleted Content added
VisualWikitext
SaltySnow (talk | contribs)
57 edits
Line 124: Line 124:


*[[HBO]] is creating a limited series covering Epstein's life and death. [[Sony|SonyTV]] and [[Lifetime (TV network)|Lifetime]] also have similar works in progress.<ref>{{cite news |url=https://www.inquirer.com/entertainment/tv/jeffrey-epstein-hbo-series-adam-mckay-julie-k-brown-20191031.html |title=HBO orders Jeffrey Epstein series based on book by former Daily News reporter |first1=Nick |last1=Vadala |work=Inquirer.com |date=October 31, 2019 |language=en}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |url=https://variety.com/2019/tv/news/jeffrey-epstein-series-hbo-adam-mckay-1203388518/ |title=Adam McKay Sets Jeffrey Epstein Limited Series at HBO Under New First-Look Deal |first1=Joe |last1=Otterson |first2=Joe |last2=Otterson |work=Variety |date=October 30, 2019}}</ref>
*[[HBO]] is creating a limited series covering Epstein's life and death. [[Sony|SonyTV]] and [[Lifetime (TV network)|Lifetime]] also have similar works in progress.<ref>{{cite news |url=https://www.inquirer.com/entertainment/tv/jeffrey-epstein-hbo-series-adam-mckay-julie-k-brown-20191031.html |title=HBO orders Jeffrey Epstein series based on book by former Daily News reporter |first1=Nick |last1=Vadala |work=Inquirer.com |date=October 31, 2019 |language=en}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |url=https://variety.com/2019/tv/news/jeffrey-epstein-series-hbo-adam-mckay-1203388518/ |title=Adam McKay Sets Jeffrey Epstein Limited Series at HBO Under New First-Look Deal |first1=Joe |last1=Otterson |first2=Joe |last2=Otterson |work=Variety |date=October 30, 2019}}</ref>
*In January 2020, [[University of Missouri]] published an article "Scott Cooper Miami Scholarship<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://wikitia.com/wiki/Scott_Cooper_Miami|title=Scott Cooper Miami - Wikitia|website=wikitia.com|language=en|access-date=2020-02-03}}</ref> Asks Students If They Believe Jeffrey Epstein Really Commit Suicide."<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://courses.mizzouk12.missouri.edu/eportfolios/1068/Home/Scott_Cooper_Miami_Scholarship_Asks_Students_If_They_Believe_Jeffrey_Epstein_Really_Commit_Suicide|title=Scott Cooper Miami Scholarship Asks Students If They Believe Jeffrey Epstein Really Commit Suicide: Home: Asktheexperts|website=courses.mizzouk12.missouri.edu|access-date=2020-02-03}}</ref>


==See also==
==See also==

Revision as of 07:09, 3 February 2020

Death of Jeffrey Epstein
Jeffrey Epstein in his final mugshot, taken July 8, 2019
DateAugust 10, 2019; 5 years ago (2019-08-10)
LocationMetropolitan Correctional Center, New York City
Coordinates40°38′14″N 74°04′36″W / 40.63716°N 74.07674°W / 40.63716; -74.07674
CauseSuicide by hanging (disputed)
OutcomeFBI and DOJ investigations, removal of Warden, Indictment of guards on duty
Deaths1
CoronerNew York City Medical Examiner

On August 10, 2019, American financier and convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein was found unresponsive in his Metropolitan Correctional Center jail cell, where he was awaiting trial on new sex trafficking charges. According to the Department of Justice, Federal Bureau of Prisons official statement, "He was transported to a local hospital for treatment of life-threatening injuries and subsequently pronounced dead by hospital staff."[1] The New York City medical examiner ruled Epstein's death a suicide.[2] Epstein's lawyers challenged that conclusion and opened their own investigation.[3]

Epstein's brother, Mark, hired Michael Baden to oversee the autopsy. In late October, Baden announced that autopsy evidence was more indicative of homicidal strangulation than suicidal hanging. Attorney General William Barr described Epstein's death as "a perfect storm of screw-ups."[4] Both the FBI and the U.S. Department of Justice's inspector general are conducting investigations into the circumstances of his death. The guards on duty were later charged with conspiracy and record falsification.[5][6] Epstein's death caused the ongoing sex-trafficking investigations to shift attention towards his associates.[7]

Due to violations of normal jail procedures on the night of his death,[note 1] the malfunction of two cameras in front of his cell, and Epstein's claimed knowledge of compromising information about famous people, his death generated speculation and conspiracy theories[10] about the possibility that he was murdered.[11][12]

Arrest and imprisonment

Further information: Jeffrey Epstein § Trafficking charges
The Metropolitan Correctional Center
Federal paperwork on Epstein's bail

On July 6, 2019, Jeffrey Epstein was arrested in New York on multiple charges including sex trafficking and placed at the Metropolitan Correctional Center in Lower Manhattan.[13] He pleaded not guilty.[14][15] He had earlier faced similar charges in Florida in 2008, but escaped federal charges in a plea deal. Under the plea deal he pled guilty to two state felony charges, paid restitution to three dozen victims identified by the FBI, and registered as a sex offender in both the states of Florida and New York.[16] On July 18, 2019, Epstein was denied bail after offering US$600,000 to be able to wear an ankle tracker at his New York City townhouse. He was viewed as a potential flight risk due to his 20 international flights in the prior 18 months.[17][18] Epstein appealed the bail denial decision to the United States Court of Appeals for the Second Circuit. At the time of his death, this case was still pending[19]

On July 23, Epstein was found semiconscious in his cell with injuries to his neck. He told his lawyers that he had been assaulted by his cellmate.[20] His cellmate, multiple murder and drug conspiracy suspect Nicholas Tartaglione, was questioned by prison officials but denied harming Epstein.[21][22] Tartaglione claimed that he had actually saved Epstein.[23] An internal prison investigation reportedly cleared Tartaglione in connection with the event.[24] After Epstein's death, Tartaglione was reportedly threatened by jail guards and told to "stop talking" after describing Epstein's death and conditions in the jail to the media.[25] As a result of the incident, Epstein was placed on suicide watch.[26] He was placed in an observation cell, surrounded by windows, where lights were left on and any devices that could be used by the prisoner to take his own life were not permitted to be retained.[27] Epstein was removed from suicide watch after six days following a psychiatric examination.[28] Some sources have reported that Epstein was removed from suicide watch after claiming that it was Tartaglione who "roughed him up."[29] Epstein was then moved to a special housing unit, where he was supposed to have a cellmate and be checked up on every 30 minutes.[30]

Epstein was reportedly depositing funds into other prisoners' accounts to gain their favor or buy protection.[31] On August 8, Jeffrey Epstein signed his last will and testament. The signing of the will was witnessed by two attorneys who knew him. The will named two longtime employees as executors, and immediately gifted all of his assets, and any assets remaining in his estate, to a trust.[32]

Death

Epstein's cell after his death

The jail informed the Justice Department, when Epstein was placed in the special housing unit (SHU), that he would have a cellmate and that a guard would look into the cell every 30 minutes. These procedures were not followed on the night he died.[33] On August 9, Epstein's cellmate was transferred, and no replacement cellmate was brought in. The evening of his death, Epstein met with his lawyers, who described him as "upbeat" before being escorted back to the SHU at 7:49 PM by guard Tova Noel.[34] Video evidence shows that the two guards failed to perform the required institutional count at 10 PM. Internal evidence[clarification needed] shows Noel briefly walking by Epstein's cell at 10:30 PM, the last time the guards entered the tier where his cell was.[35] Through the night, in violation of the jail's normal procedure, Epstein was not checked every 30 minutes.[33] The two guards who were assigned to check his cell overnight, Tova Noel and Michael Thomas, fell asleep at their desk[note 2] for about three hours and later falsified related records.[36][37] Two cameras in front of Epstein's cell also malfunctioned that night.[38] Another camera had footage which was "unusable."[38]

A noose found in Epstein's cell

As the guards were distributing breakfast around 6:30 AM on the morning of 10 August, Epstein was found unresponsive in cardiac arrest in his cell, which was initially reported as apparent suicide.[35] He was found in a kneeling position with a strip of bedsheet[note 3] wrapped around his neck. The sheet was tied to the top of his bunk.[40] He is believed to have been dead for about two hours. No photos of Epstein's body were taken in his cell. The guards performed CPR on Epstein, and witnesses reported heard them saying "Breathe, Epstein, breathe."[34] At 6:33 AM, the alarm[clarification needed] was pulled and a supervisor arrived, to whom Noel said, "Epstein hung himself."[35] He was rushed to the hospital where he was pronounced dead. The removal of his body was a violation of protocol, as the Bureau of Prisons mandates that a suicide scene be treated with the "same level of protection as any crime scene in which a death has occurred."[34] His body was transported to the medical examiner's office soon after.[41] The news of the death was posted on 4chan about 38 minutes before ABC News broke the news. If it was posted by a first responder, as it has been speculated, it would likely be a violation of privacy law.[42][43]

Epstein's body being moved to medical examiner's office

Epstein's death was the first suicide at the MCC in 14 years. Some[who?] have questioned as to whether Epstein, who was almost 6 feet tall and weighed 185 pounds, could have physically been able to hang himself from the lower bunk. Photos taken after the death also show bottles and medicine standing upright on the top bunk.[34] A former inmate at the MCC described the sheets as "paper level, not strong enough" to support Epstein's body.[27] Some have questioned why Epstein didn't use other materials available in his cell as a ligature, such as wires and tubing from a sleep apnea machine, which were stronger and longer. A note was later found in Epstein's cell, describing large bugs crawling on his body, burnt food, and guards intentionally locking him in a shower cell for one hour. It was written in ball-point pen, despite the fact that no prisoners, particularly those on suicide watch, were allowed to have one under jail protocol.[34]

Following an autopsy, Epstein's body was claimed by an "unidentified associate," later revealed to be his brother, Mark.[44][45] On September 5, Epstein's body was buried in an unmarked grave next to those of his parents at the IJ Morris Star of David cemetery in Palm Beach, Florida. The names of his parents were also removed from their tombstone in order to prevent vandalism.[46]

Autopsy and medical evidence

Wounds on Epstein's neck
Epstein's hyoid bone, among others, was broken, which is more common in cases of strangulation.

An autopsy on Epstein's body was conducted on August 11 by New York City's Chief Medical Examiner Barbara Sampson. Epstein's lawyers sent pathologist Michael Baden to personally observe the city's autopsy.[47] Following the autopsy, the medical examiner's office reported that Epstein had hanged himself with a sheet from his bed.[2] On August 14, unofficial sources reported that broken bones were found in Epstein's neck, although this can occur in the suicide of the elderly. They are said to be "more common in victims of homicide by strangulation",[48] though multiple studies have found different percentages for both manners of death.[49] Epstein's lawyers released a joint statement following the report of the medical examiner, expressing that they are not satisfied, challenging the conclusions and saying that a more complete response was forthcoming. They also indicated that the defense team fully intends to continue its own independent and complete investigation into the circumstances and cause of their client's death,[50] including taking legal action, if necessary, to view the pivotal camera footage near his cell during the night of his death.[3] They later said that the evidence concerning Epstein's death was "far more consistent" with murder than suicide.[12]

On August 16, 2019, Sampson announced that Epstein's death had been ruled a suicide by hanging.[51] Later conflicting reports stated that the injuries Epstein sustained were as consistent, if not more so, with strangulation or homicide as with suicide.[48][52] However, Sampson's report found that there was no foul play in Epstein's death.[53][54][55] Three of Epstein's lawyers expressed their dissatisfaction with Sampson's conclusion of suicide, having hired renowned forensic pathologist Dr. Michael Baden to observe the autopsy; they said they would be initiating their own investigation and will be providing a more detailed statement in the future.[56][57] Baden observed Sampson's autopsy when it was conducted; after the autopsy he indicated that he was unable to comment due to gag orders filed by Sampson's office and Epstein's estate.[51]

On October 30, 2019, Baden issued a report stating that Epstein's neck injuries were much more consistent with "homicidal strangulation" than suicide. He stated that Epstein "had two fractures on the left and right sides of his larynx, specifically the thyroid cartilage or Adam's apple, as well as one fracture on the left hyoid bone above the Adam's apple". In particular, his hyoid bone, which is rarely broken in suicidal hangings, was broken in a way indicative of strangulation from behind.[58] Baden later said, "Going over a thousand jail hangings, suicides in the New York City state prisons over the past 40-50 years, no one had three fractures." The neck wound was in the center of his neck, not under his mandibles as in a typical hanging. Baden points to this as being more common when a victim is strangled by a wire or cord. Baden has also noted that the wound is much thinner than the strip of bedsheet was, and although there was blood on Epstein's neck, it was absent on the bed-sheet ligature.[59] According to the autopsy files, Epstein also had contusions on both of his wrists, an abrasion on his left forearm, and deep muscle hemorrhaging of his left deltoid or shoulder. His brother, Mark, later suggested that he was "handcuffed and struggled."[60] Epstein also had hemorrhages in his eyes, which although not unheard of in hangings, are more common in strangulations.[61]

Reaction

External videos
video icon Trump discussing Bill Clinton in relation to Epstein's death
video icon Attorney General William Barr says he's "appalled" by Jeffrey Epstein's death in jail

U.S. President Donald Trump responded to Epstein's death by retweeting a conspiracy theory linking Epstein's death to former president Bill Clinton and former secretary of state Hillary Clinton, a few hours after Epstein's death was announced. Angel Ureña, a spokesperson for the Clintons, tweeted: "Ridiculous, and of course not true—and Donald Trump knows it."[62] White House counselor Kellyanne Conway defended Trump's retweet, saying on Fox News Sunday that he "wants everything to be investigated".[63] CNN host Jake Tapper later criticized Trump for the retweet, saying "the state of our union is appalled" that Trump had used his "massive Twitter platform to spread a deranged conspiracy theory."[64]

Senator Kirsten Gillibrand of New York called for a "full investigation".

Attorney General William Barr said he was "appalled" by Epstein's death while in federal custody and that it "raises serious questions that must be answered." He ordered an investigation by the Justice Department's Inspector General in addition to the FBI investigation.[65] Senator Ben Sasse, chairman of the United States Senate Judiciary oversight subcommittee, later wrote a letter to Barr saying "The Department of Justice failed." He added "Given Epstein's previous attempted suicide, he should have been locked in a padded room under unbroken, 24/7, constant surveillance. Obviously, heads must roll."[66] Rep. Matt Gaetz, who sits on the United States House Judiciary Committee, called on chairman Rep. Jerry Nadler to prioritize investigating the circumstances around Epstein's death over other probes being carried out by the committee.[67] Rep. Lois Frankel called for a congressional investigation into the 2008 plea deal for Epstein.[68] Sen. Kirsten Gillibrand called for a "full investigation" into Epstein's death, saying on CBS News' Face the Nation, "These survivors deserved justice, they deserved a day in court, they deserved to speak out against this perpetrator, and it is a shame. I do think there needs to be a full investigation about why he was taken off the suicide watch list; I think it's a strange decision, given that he attempted suicide once already."[69] Sen. Rick Scott said Epstein's death had robbed his victims of an "opportunity for justice. The Federal Bureau of Prisons must provide answers on what systemic failures of the MCC Manhattan or criminal acts allowed this coward to deny justice to his victims."[70]

On August 12, 2019, the leaders of the House Judiciary Committee, Chairman Nadler and ranking member Doug Collins, sent 23 questions to the Federal Bureau of Prisons about Epstein's death. "The apparent suicide of this high-profile and—if allegations are proven to be accurate—particularly reprehensible individual while in the federal government's custody demonstrates severe miscarriages of or deficiencies in inmate protocol and has allowed the deceased to ultimately evade facing justice," they wrote. "Any victims of Mr. Epstein's actions will forever be denied proper recourse and the scintilla of recompense our justice system can provide in the face of such alleged atrocities; the competency and rigor of our criminal justice system has been marred by this apparent oversight."[71] Later on August 13, Nebraska senator Ben Sasse, the chair of the Senate Judiciary Committee, wrote a letter to Attorney General Barr urging him to "rip up" the 2008 non-prosecution deal for Epstein and his co-conspirators. Sasse argued that the Justice Department must bring Epstein's co-conspirators to justice despite his death, and added, "This crooked deal cannot stand."[72]

"For them to pull him off suicide watch is shocking," Cameron Lindsay, a former warden with experience working at three federal facilities, told NBC News. "For someone this high-profile, with these allegations and this many victims, who has had a suicide attempt in the last few weeks, you can take absolutely no chances. You leave him on suicide watch until he's out of there."[73] Federal prosecutors in the case called Epstein's death "disturbing" and emphasized that they would continue to seek justice for his accusers even after the financier's death. Geoffrey Berman, the United States Attorney for the Southern District of New York, said in a statement, "To those brave young women who have already come forward and to the many others who have yet to do so, let me reiterate that we remain committed to standing for you, and our investigation of the conduct charged in the indictment—which included a conspiracy count—remains ongoing."[74]

Investigations

Attorney General William Barr described Epstein's death as "a perfect storm of screw-ups."
External videos
video icon Bureau of Prisons director Kathleen Hawk Sawyer testifying on Epstein's death before the Senate Judiciary Committee
video icon The lawyer of the guards responding to their indictment

The Federal Bureau of Investigation subsequently launched an investigation of the circumstances surrounding Epstein's death,[75] with Attorney General Barr saying that Justice Department officials will thoroughly investigate "serious irregularities" at the Metropolitan Correctional Center (MCC) where Epstein was found dead. Barr also warned that any of Epstein's alleged co-conspirators "should not rest easy," noting that federal prosecutors will continue to aggressively pursue the case to ensure anyone who worked alongside Epstein will be held accountable. "We are now learning of serious irregularities at this facility that are deeply concerning and demand a thorough investigation," Barr said during remarks at a law enforcement conference in New Orleans. "The FBI and the Office of Inspector General are doing just that." Barr said he was "appalled" and "angry" over the developments; he insisted that the Justice Department would "get to the bottom" of what happened and promised accountability. "Let me assure you this case will continue on against anyone who was complicit with Epstein," Barr said. "Any co-conspirators should not rest easy. The victims deserve justice and they will get it."[76] On August 12, 2019, federal agents searched Epstein's home on his private island, Little Saint James.[77] In November 2019 Kathleen Hawk Sawyer, the director of the Bureau of Prisons, told the Senate Judiciary Committee that the FBI is investigating whether a "criminal enterprise" was involved in Epstein's death. She added that there is "no indication, from anything I know" that his death "was anything other than a suicide." A spokesperson later explained that she had used the phrase "criminal enterprise" because that was what Senator Lindsey Graham has asked her about, and that "she was referring to looking into possible criminal conduct by staff."[78] As Barr received more information surrounding Epstein's death, he came to believe that it was only "a perfect storm of screw-ups."[4]

On August 13, Attorney General Barr ordered the Bureau of Prisons to temporarily reassign the warden of the MCC, Lamine N'Diaye, while the FBI and Justice Department inspector general investigate the circumstances surrounding Epstein's death. James Petrucci was named acting warden.[79] Two staff members assigned to Epstein's unit have also been placed on administrative leave and James Petrucci, the warden of FCI Otisville, was named acting warden.[79][80] On August 14, Manhattan federal court judge Richard Berman, who was overseeing Epstein's criminal case, wrote to the Metropolitan Correctional Centre warden Lamine N'Diaye inquiring as to whether an investigation into the millionaire's apparent suicide would include a probe into his prior (July 23) injuries. Judge Berman wrote that to his knowledge it has never been definitely explained what they concluded about the incident.[81]

Two French Cabinet officials Marlène Schiappa and Adrien Taquet subsequently called for an investigation into the "many unanswered questions" about Epstein's ties to France, calling for the French government to launch its own probe. "The US investigation has highlighted links with France," Schiappa and Taquet said in the statement, according to ABC. "It thus seems to us fundamental for the victims that an investigation be opened in France so that all is brought to light." "The elements received at the Paris prosecutor's office are being analyzed and cross-referenced," a spokesperson for the office told ABC News. "The first audits are currently underway to determine whether an investigation should be opened in France."[82]

Epstein's death caused the ongoing sex-trafficking investigations and media attention to shift attention towards his alleged associates, such as Prince Andrew and Ghislaine Maxwell.[7][83][84]

On November 19, 2019, federal prosecutors in New York indicted Metropolitan Correctional Center guards Michael Thomas and Tova Noel, charged with creating false records and conspiracy.[85][86] The charges were based on video footage obtained by prosecutors, indicating that Epstein was not observed by them for eight hours, while the two guards made personal searches on their computers and slept. According to Geoffrey Berman, the U.S. Attorney for the Southern District of New York, during that time they repeatedly signed records affirming that they had performed the required checks.[85] Their bail was set at $100,000.[6] They claimed that they were "scapegoats" for larger issues within the federal prison system.[87][88]

In a December 2019 court proceeding against Epstein's cellmate Nick Tartaglione, federal prosecutors admitted that the surveillance footage from outside Epstein's cell during the July 23 incident had disappeared. Tartaglione's defense had sought to use the footage to demonstrate his character while he reportedly saved Epstein. Tartaglione's lawyer had requested that the footage be retained on July 25, two days after the incident.[89] Judge Kenneth Karas requested that the government determine what had happened to the footage.[90] Several days later, federal prosecutors reversed their statement, claiming that they had found the missing footage. But in January 2020, they admitted that the footage had been permanently deleted due to a "clerical error".[91][92]

Homicide suspicions and speculation

A partisan protestor alleging outside involvement shortly after Epstein's death

Due to violations of standard prison procedures, and Epstein's knowledge of compromising information about famous individuals, his death by "apparent suicide"[93] spawned skepticism, as well as multiple conspiracy theories. Epstein conspiracy theorists have been labeled "Epstein Truthers," similar to those who dispute the accepted account of the 9/11 attacks.[94] A Rasmussen poll conducted shortly after his death in August 2019 found that only 29% of U.S. adults believed Epstein actually committed suicide, while 42% thought he was murdered to prevent him from testifying against powerful people with whom he associated, and 29% of people were undecided.[95] By November 2019, a Business Insider poll found that those who believed Epstein was murdered outnumbered suicide proponents three to one.[96] In a 2020 poll, Rasmussen found that a majority of Americans believed Epstein was murdered, with only 21% believing that he actually committed suicide.[97] University of Chicago professor Eric Oliver, an expert in conspiracy theories, has labeled populist sentiment and a mistrust of the political system as major contributors to the widespread rejection of the official narrative.[98]

Before Epstein's death, several people publicly predicted an untimely death for Epstein in prison. In a July 27 interview, Bob Fitrakis—a longtime investigator into Epstein[99]—stated that he thought it was "likely" that Epstein would be "killed in prison".[100][101] Spencer Kuvin, a lawyer who represented three alleged victims of Epstein, stated in a July 2019 interview following Epstein's first apparent suicide attempt, that he believed it was an attack on his life, and stated there was a high probability that he would be murdered in prison.[102][103]

Because of his connections to many wealthy and powerful people, there was speculation that some co-conspirator or participant in his sex crimes might have arranged for him to be silenced.[102] In the hours after the death, the hashtags #ClintonBodyCount and #TrumpBodyCount were trending on Twitter as users accused Bill and Hillary Clinton and Donald Trump of being involved in Epstein's death.[104][105] Several hours after Epstein was found dead, Trump retweeted a conspiracy theory by Terrence K. Williams, a comedian and conservative commentator, suggesting that there was a connection between the Clintons and Epstein's death—furthering a perennial conspiracy theory dating to the early 1990s that the Clintons have had numerous people killed to silence them.[106][107] The retweet was immediately showcased worldwide.[108][109]

At an August 27 hearing, Epstein defense attorney Reid Weingarten expressed "significant doubts" that Epstein's death was due to suicide. According to Weingarten, when attorneys met with their client shortly before his death, "we did not see a despairing, despondent, suicidal person".[110] Epstein's brother, Mark, has rejected the possibility of Jeffrey's suicide, claiming, “I could see if he got a life sentence, I could then see him taking himself out, but he had a bail hearing coming up."[111] He also claimed that his "life may also be in danger," if Epstein was indeed murdered.[112] New York City mayor Bill de Blasio and podcast host Joe Rogan expressed doubts that Epstein's death was due to suicide.[104] Former US Attorney and Senate Judiciary Committee counsel Brett Tolman said that his death was "more than coincidental" considering his "many connections to powerful people".[113] Syrian president Bashar al-Assad has asserted that "American billionaire Jeffrey Epstein was killed several weeks ago - they said he had committed suicide in jail. However, he was killed because he knew a lot of vital secrets connected with very important people in the British and American regimes, and possibly in other countries as well."[114]

Further information: Epstein didn't kill himself
The meme on an interstate overpass in Ohio
The meme on a sticker at a bus stop in Halifax, Canada
  • HBO is creating a limited series covering Epstein's life and death. SonyTV and Lifetime also have similar works in progress.[119][120]
  • In January 2020, University of Missouri published an article "Scott Cooper Miami Scholarship[121] Asks Students If They Believe Jeffrey Epstein Really Commit Suicide."[122]

See also

Notes

  1. ^ E.g. the removal of his cellmate without a replacement, possession of banned objects, the falling asleep of two guards who were meant to check on him.[8][9]
  2. ^ Their desk was about 15 feet away from Epstein's cell, but up a flight of stairs and through a locked gate[34]
  3. ^ Epstein's possession of a bedsheet was also against jail protocol.[39]

References

  1. ^ Gitt, Tamara [@tamaragitt] (August 10, 2019). "Manhattan Prison Press Release re #JeffreyEpstein death: Saturday, August 10, 2019, at approximately 6:30 a.m., inmate Jeffrey Edward Epstein was found unresponsive in his cell...subsequently pronounced dead by hospital staff. pic.twitter.com/UF78y96afe" (Tweet). Retrieved November 19, 2019 – via Twitter.
  2. ^ a b Sisak, Michael R.; Balsamo, Michael; Neumeister, Larry (August 17, 2019). "Medical examiner rules Epstein death a suicide by hanging". AP News.
  3. ^ a b Frias, Lauren (August 16, 2019). "Jeffrey Epstein's lawyers blast 'medieval conditions' at federal jail where he died by suicide and say they are launching their own investigation". Business Insider. Retrieved August 19, 2019.
  4. ^ a b "AG Barr: Epstein's death was a 'perfect storm of screw-ups'". MSN.
  5. ^ Ramey, Rebecca Davis O'Brien and Corinne. "Jeffrey Epstein's Jail Guards Charged With Conspiracy, Records Falsification". WSJ.
  6. ^ a b Gold, Michael; Ivory, Danielle; Hong, Nicole (November 19, 2019). "Guards Accused of Napping and Shopping Online the Night Epstein Died". The New York Times.
  7. ^ a b O'brien, Rebecca Davis; Hong, Nicole; Chapman, Ben; Gurman, Sadie (August 11, 2019). "Epstein's Death Sparks Probe, Shifts Spotlight to Associates". Wall Street Journal. Retrieved January 2, 2020.
  8. ^ Benner, Katie; Ivory, Danielle; Oppel Jr, Richard A. (August 11, 2019). "Before Jail Suicide, Epstein Was Left Alone and Not Closely Monitored". The New York Times. Retrieved August 11, 2019.
  9. ^ Hosenball, Mark (August 28, 2019). "FBI studies two broken cameras outside cell where Epstein died: source". Reuters. London. Retrieved August 29, 2019.
  10. ^ Gold, Michael; Bromwich, Jonah Engel (August 12, 2019). "Epstein Conspiracy Theories: De Blasio, and Others Join Speculation". The New York Times. ISSN 0362-4331. Retrieved January 6, 2020.
  11. ^ Stewart, James B. (August 12, 2019). "The Day Jeffrey Epstein Told Me He Had Dirt on Powerful People". The New York Times. Retrieved August 22, 2019.
  12. ^ a b Stockler, Asher (August 27, 2019). "Epstein Lawyers say evidence 'far more consistent' with murder than suicide". Newsweek. Retrieved August 27, 2019.
  13. ^ Halaschak, Zachary (August 12, 2019). "Federal jail where Jeffrey Epstein was held has history of security issues". Washington Examiner.
  14. ^ Watkins, Ali (July 8, 2019). "Jeffrey Epstein Is Indicted on Sex Charges as Discovery of Nude Photos Is Disclosed". The New York Times.
  15. ^ Pierson, Brendan (July 8, 2019). "Financier Epstein pleads not guilty to sex trafficking charges involving girls". Reuters.
  16. ^ Brown, Julie K. (November 28, 2018). "How a future Trump Cabinet member gave a serial sex abuser the deal of a lifetime". Miami Herald. Archived from the original on November 28, 2018. Retrieved November 28, 2018.
  17. ^ Allyn, Bobby; Booker, Brakkton (July 18, 2019). "Jeffrey Epstein Is Denied Bail In Sex Trafficking Case". NPR.org.
  18. ^ Mangan, Dan; Breuninger, Kevin (July 18, 2019). "Jeffrey Epstein's lust for young girls appears 'uncontrollable,' judge says in denying bail to accused sex trafficker". CNBC.
  19. ^ Breuninger, Kevin; Mangan, Dan (July 23, 2019). "Jeffrey Epstein appeals bail denial decision in child sex trafficking case".
  20. ^ Golding, Bruce; Saul, Emily (August 15, 2019). "Epstein told lawyers that cellmate Nicholas Tartaglione 'roughed him up'". nypost.com.
  21. ^ Goldstein, Joelle (July 25, 2019). "Jeffrey Epstein Found Injured in NYC Jail Cell as Fellow Inmate Denies Assaulting Accused Pedophile". People.com. Retrieved November 18, 2019.
  22. ^ Darrah, Nicole (August 12, 2019). "Jeffrey Epstein feared cellmate, a muscle-bound ex-cop charged in murder who was moved before financier's death: report". Fox News.
  23. ^ Brown, Stephen Rex; Parascandola, Rocco (July 26, 2019). "Jeffrey Epstein's ex-cop cellmate says he saved multimillionaire sex offender from hanging: source". Daily News. Retrieved December 18, 2019.
  24. ^ Schapiro, Rich; Dienst, Johnathan (August 16, 2019). "Jeffrey Epstein's former cellmate cleared of wrongdoing in incident that preceded his death". NBC News. Retrieved August 21, 2019.
  25. ^ Saul, Emily (August 20, 2019). "Jail guards threatening former Epstein cellmate Nicholas Tartaglione: lawyer".
  26. ^ Casiano, Louis (August 10, 2019). "Jeffrey Epstein was not on suicide watch before death, official says". Fox News.
  27. ^ a b Golding, Bruce; Hamilton, Brad (August 11, 2019). "There's 'no way' Jeffrey Epstein killed himself, a former NYC jail inmate says". New York Post. Retrieved November 18, 2019.
  28. ^ Newburger, Emma (August 11, 2019). "Jeffrey Epstein's autopsy results expected as FBI and DOJ watchdog investigate apparent suicide". CNBC. Retrieved August 21, 2019.
  29. ^ Golding, Bruce; Saul, Emily (August 15, 2019). "Epstein told lawyers that cellmate Nicholas Tartaglione 'roughed him up'".
  30. ^ Watkins, Ali (August 10, 2019). "Why Wasn't Jeffrey Epstein on Suicide Watch When He Died?". The New York Times. Retrieved December 18, 2019.
  31. ^ Connelly, Eileen AJ; Siegler, Mara (August 17, 2019). "Jeffrey Epstein tried to leverage his wealth to survive in jail: report".
  32. ^ DeGregory, Priscilla; Sheehy, Kate (August 19, 2019). "Jeffrey Epstein signed will just two days before suicide". New York Post. Retrieved August 20, 2019.
  33. ^ a b Benner, Katie; Ivory, Danielle; Oppel, Jr., Richard A. (August 11, 2019). "Before Jail Suicide, Epstein Was Left Alone and Not Closely Monitored". The New York Times. Retrieved August 11, 2019.
  34. ^ a b c d e f "60 Minutes investigates the death of Jeffrey Epstein". CBS. January 5, 2020. Retrieved January 5, 2020.
  35. ^ a b c Levenson, Eric (November 19, 2019). "A timeline of what Jeffrey Epstein and his prison guards did in his final hours". CNN. Retrieved December 14, 2019.
  36. ^ Benner, Katie; Ivory, Danielle (August 13, 2019). "Jeffrey Epstein Death: 2 Guards Slept Through Checks and Falsified Records". The New York Times. Retrieved August 14, 2019.
  37. ^ Pierson, brendan (August 13, 2019). "Two jail guards for Jeffrey Epstein charged with cover-up in his suicide". Reuters.
  38. ^ a b Hosenball, Mark (August 28, 2019). "FBI studies two broken cameras outside cell where Epstein died: source". Reuters. London. Retrieved August 29, 2019.
  39. ^ "Jeffrey Epstein's guards placed on leave under suspicion of falsifying jail records". France 24. August 14, 2019.
  40. ^ "Jeffrey Epstein's official autopsy confirms he hanged himself in jail cell". New York Post. August 16, 2019.
  41. ^ "As mystery surrounding Jeffrey Epstein's death deepens, alleged victims vow to keep seeking justice". CBS News. August 12, 2019.
  42. ^ Lytvynenko, Jane (August 13, 2019). "Epstein's Death Was On 4Chan Before Officials Announced It — And Authorities Had To Look Into It". BuzzFeed News.
  43. ^ Rambaran, Vandana (August 13, 2019). "FDNY reviews reports of Epstein death leaked on 4Chan". Fox News.
  44. ^ "Jeffrey Epstein's body claimed by unidentified 'associate'". NBC News. August 14, 2019.
  45. ^ Shallwani, Pervaiz (August 16, 2019). "Jeffrey Epstein's Body Claimed by His Brother". The Daily Beast.
  46. ^ "Jeffery Epstein buried in unmarked grave with family names removed". The Jerusalem Post. September 5, 2019.
  47. ^ Shallwani, Pervaiz; McNamara, Audrey; Siegel, Harry (August 11, 2019). "Jeffrey Epstein Camp Sent Pathologist Michael Baden to Watch Over His Autopsy". The Daily Beast.
  48. ^ a b Leonnig, Carol D.; Davis, Aaron C. "Autopsy finds broken bones in Jeffrey Epstein's neck, deepening questions around his death". Washington Post.
  49. ^ McBride, Jessica (August 15, 2019). "Jeffrey Epstein's Broken Hyoid Neck Bone: How Common Is It?".
  50. ^ Brest, Mike (August 18, 2019). "Epstein's lawyers 'not satisfied with the conclusions of the medical examiner'". Washington Examiner.
  51. ^ a b Shallwani, Pervaiz (August 16, 2019). "Epstein's Death Was Suicide: Medical Examiner". The Daily Beast.
  52. ^ "Medical examiner says Jeffrey Epstein's death was a suicide". The Guardian. August 16, 2019.
  53. ^ "'Suicide': Epstein autopsy finds no sign of foul play". Times of India. Archived from the original on August 19, 2019. Retrieved August 18, 2019.
  54. ^ "No foul play in Epstein death: US coroner". 7NEWS.com.au. August 16, 2019.
  55. ^ "Jeffrey Epstein Death Ruled 'Suicide By Hanging'". 10 daily. August 17, 2019.
  56. ^ Sisak, Michael R.; Balsamo, Michael; Neumeister, Larry (August 16, 2019). "Epstein lawyers dissatisfied with autopsy result". WSYX. Associated Press.
  57. ^ Frias, Lauren (August 17, 2019). "Jeffrey Epstein's lawyers blast 'medieval conditions' at federal jail where he died by suicide and say they are launching their own investigation". Business Insider.
  58. ^ "Epstein died by suicide using his jail bed sheet while his guards slept, according to report".
  59. ^ "60 Minutes investigates the death of Jeffrey Epstein". CBS. January 5, 2020. Retrieved January 5, 2020.
  60. ^ "Jeffrey Epstein had 'unexplained' injuries on wrists and shoulder, brother says". November 6, 2019.
  61. ^ Kaplan, Talia (November 19, 2019). "Jeffrey Epstein was alone in prison cell the night of his death, feds say, citing video". Fox News.
  62. ^ Frazin, Rachel (August 10, 2019). "Trump retweets post promoting conspiracy theory about Jeffrey Epstein's death". thehill.com. Retrieved August 13, 2019.
  63. ^ Budryk, Zack (August 11, 2019). "Conway downplays Trump's Epstein retweet: 'I think the president just wants everything to be investigated'". The Hill. Retrieved August 13, 2019.
  64. ^ Wise, Justin (August 11, 2019). "Jake Tapper calls out Trump for sharing 'deranged' and 'insane' conspiracy theory about Epstein death". The Hill. Retrieved August 13, 2019.
  65. ^ Byrnes, Jesse (August 10, 2019). "Attorney General Barr 'appalled' by Epstein death in federal custody". The Hill. Retrieved August 13, 2019.
  66. ^ Frazin, Rachel (August 10, 2019). "Sasse tells AG that 'heads must roll' over Epstein treatment in federal custody". The Hill. Retrieved August 13, 2019.
  67. ^ Axelrod, Tal (August 10, 201). "Ocasio-Cortez demands 'answers' after Epstein found dead in jail cell". The Hill. Retrieved August 13, 2019.
  68. ^ Campisi, Jessica (August 10, 2019). "Democrat calls for congressional investigation after Epstein death". The Hill. Retrieved August 21, 2019.
  69. ^ Budryk, Zack (August 11, 2019). "Gillibrand calls for 'full investigation' into Epstein's death". The Hill. Retrieved August 13, 2019.
  70. ^ Axelrod, Tal (August 10, 2019). "GOP senator: 'Inexcusable' that Epstein not under constant suicide watch". The Hill. Retrieved August 13, 2019.
  71. ^ Budryk, Zack (August 12, 2019). "House Judiciary leaders demand answers from Bureau of Prisons on Epstein death". The Hill. Retrieved August 13, 2019.
  72. ^ Wise, Justin (August 13, 2019). "Sasse calls on DOJ to 'rip up' Epstein nonprosecution deal to bring 'co-conspirators to justice'". The Hill. Retrieved August 13, 2019.
  73. ^ "Prison experts are stunned and angry that Jeffrey Epstein was taken off suicide watch". NBC News. August 10, 2019. Retrieved August 21, 2019.
  74. ^ Tenbarge, Kat (August 10, 2019). "Federal prosecutors confirm that the Epstein sex-trafficking investigation will continue despite his death". Business Insider. Retrieved August 21, 2019.
  75. ^ "FBI investigating Epstein death in Manhattan jail". The Hill. August 10, 2019. Retrieved August 13, 2019.
  76. ^ "Barr criticizes prison's 'serious irregularities' after Epstein death". August 12, 2019. Retrieved August 13, 2019.
  77. ^ "FBI searches Jeffrey Epstein's home in Virgin Islands". August 12, 2019. Retrieved August 13, 2019.
  78. ^ Mangan, Dan (November 19, 2019). "FBI probing if Jeffrey Epstein's death was the result of a 'criminal enterprise,' prisons chief says". CNBC. Retrieved November 20, 2019.
  79. ^ a b Johnson, Kevin (August 13, 2019). "New York warden reassigned after Jeffrey Epstein's death; two staffers placed on leave". USA TodaaODAY.
  80. ^ Chalfant, Morgan (August 13, 2019). "DOJ reassigns warden after Epstein's apparent suicide". The Hill. Retrieved August 13, 2019.
  81. ^ Saul, Emily (August 14, 2019). "Epstein judge wants answers about first incident in jail".
  82. ^ Budryk, Zack (August 13, 2019). "French officials call for investigation of Epstein 'links with France'". The Hill. Retrieved August 13, 2019.
  83. ^ Mangan, Dan (November 22, 2019). "Jeffrey Epstein scandal: Prince Andrew booted from Buckingham Palace, report says". CNBC. Retrieved January 2, 2020.
  84. ^ Voytko, Lisette (December 27, 2019). "Report: FBI Investigating Epstein Confidante Ghislaine Maxwell". Forbes. Retrieved January 2, 2020.
  85. ^ a b Allyn, Bobby (November 19, 2019). "Jeffrey Epstein's Prison Guards Are Indicted On Federal Charges". NPR. All Things Considered. Retrieved December 11, 2019.
  86. ^ "Epstein guards charged with falsifying records". November 19, 2019. Retrieved November 19, 2019.
  87. ^ Weiser, Benjamin (November 25, 2019). "Epstein Suicide: Guards Say They're Scapegoats for a Broken System". The New York Times.
  88. ^ Levenson, Eric; Morales, Mark; Shortell, David (November 20, 2019). "Attorneys for Jeffrey Epstein's prison guards point the blame at the system". CNN.
  89. ^ Mangan, Dan (December 18, 2019). "Jail video surveillance from Jeffrey Epstein's first suicide attempt in July is missing, prosecutor says, according to reports". The Seattle Times. Retrieved December 18, 2019.
  90. ^ Brown, Stephen Rex (December 18, 2019). "Surveillance footage outside Jeffrey Epstein's cell during suicide attempt is missing". The Seattle Times. Retrieved December 18, 2019.
  91. ^ Pagones, Stephanie (December 20, 2019). "Lost Jeffrey Epstein suicide attempt video is found: Prosecutors". The Seattle Times. Retrieved December 23, 2019.
  92. ^ Winter, Tom (January 9, 2020). "Surveillance video from Jeffrey Epstein's first apparent suicide attempt 'no longer exists'". NBC News. Retrieved December 23, 2019.
  93. ^ Allyn, Bobby (November 19, 2019). "Jeffrey Epstein's Prison Guards Are Indicted On Federal Charges". National Public Radio.
  94. ^ "Epstein Truthers Are Obsessed With a Sci-Fi Book About Child Sex Slavery Written by Bill Barr's Dad". Vie. August 16, 2019. Retrieved February 2, 2020.
  95. ^ "Americans Say Murder More Likely Than Suicide in Epstein Case". Rasmussen Reports. August 14, 2019. Retrieved August 24, 2019.
  96. ^ Shamsian, Jacob. "Almost half of Americans now believe the conspiracy theory that sex offender Jeffrey Epstein was murdered". Business Insider.
  97. ^ "Most Now Think Jeffrey Epstein Was Murdered". Rasmussen Reports. January 9, 2020. Retrieved February 2, 2020.
  98. ^ "Feds Denounce Jeffrey Epstein Death Conspiracy Theories". Time. November 23, 2019. Retrieved December 13, 2019.
  99. ^ Thomas Jr., Landon (October 28, 2002). "Jeffrey Epstein: International Moneyman of Mystery". New York Magazine. Retrieved August 11, 2019.
  100. ^ Fitrakis, Bob (July 27, 2019). "This is Bob Fitrakis, here to answer your questions about the Epstein-Wexner connection to the intelligence community and organized crime!". Reddit. Retrieved August 11, 2019. It's likely he'll be killed in prison and I think they'll limit the things he's able to say at trial, just like Manuel Noriega.
  101. ^ Fitrakis, Bob (July 27, 2019). "AMA | This is Bob Fitrakis, here to answer your questions about the Epstein-Wexner connection to the intelligence community and organized crime!". Reddit. Retrieved August 11, 2019. I think he's more likely to be killed so then he can't talk. He's in the same position as the D.C. madam.
  102. ^ a b Ramadan, Lulu (August 10, 2019). "Jeffrey Epstein: 'He could buy anything, including his own death'". The Palm Beach Post. Retrieved August 11, 2019.
  103. ^ Clibanoff, Matt (July 29, 2019). "'I Do Question Whether It Was a True Suicide Attempt': Victims' Lawyer Worries Epstein Won't Make It to Trial". Law & Crime. Retrieved August 11, 2019.
  104. ^ a b Ellis, Emma Grey (November 15, 2019). "'Epstein Didn't Kill Himself' and the Meme-ing of Conspiracy". Wired.
  105. ^ Matthews, Dylan (August 10, 2019). "The conspiracy theories about the Clintons and Jeffrey Epstein's death, explained". Vox. Retrieved August 11, 2019.
  106. ^ Timm, Jane C.; Johnstone, Liz (August 10, 2019). "Trump retweets Epstein conspiracy theory, claiming Clinton connection". NBC News. Retrieved August 11, 2019.
  107. ^ Matthews, Dylan (August 10, 2019). "The conspiracy theories about the Clintons and Jeffrey Epstein's death, explained". Vox.
  108. ^ "Trump fuels Jeffrey Epstein conspiracy theories on social media". NBC News. August 12, 2019. Retrieved August 13, 2019.
  109. ^ Dorman, Sam (August 10, 2019). "Trump retweets post implying Bill Clinton behind Jeffrey Epstein's death". Fox News.
  110. ^ Mangan, Dan; Breuninger, Kevin (August 27, 2019). "Jeffrey Epstein's lawyers highly 'skeptical' of suicide ruling, say he wasn't 'despairing, despondent' before death". CNBC.
  111. ^ Brown, Julie (November 14, 2019). "Jeffrey Epstein wasn't trafficking women — and he didn't kill himself, brother says". Miami herald.
  112. ^ Pagones, Stephanie (December 23, 2019). "Jeffrey Epstein's brother fears his life 'may also be in danger'". FOX Business. Retrieved January 1, 2020.
  113. ^ Golding, Bruce (November 20, 2019). "Ex-US attorney calls Epstein suicide 'more than coincidental'".
  114. ^ O'Connor, Tom (November 14, 2019). "Syria's Assad says Jeffrey Epstein did not kill himself". Newsweek. Retrieved November 15, 2019.
  115. ^ Poisson, Jayme; Merlan, Anna (November 20, 2019). "Understanding the 'Jeffrey Epstein didn't kill himself' meme" (Audio). CBC News. Front Burner. Retrieved December 1, 2019.
  116. ^ "Epstein's Death Becomes A Meme". NPR. November 16, 2019. Retrieved December 27, 2019.
  117. ^ Amatulli, Jenna (January 5, 2020). "Ricky Gervais Says Epstein Didn't Kill Himself, Drags Felicity Huffman At Golden Globes". Huffington Post. Retrieved January 5, 2020.
  118. ^ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3c5neBXQwf8
  119. ^ Vadala, Nick (October 31, 2019). "HBO orders Jeffrey Epstein series based on book by former Daily News reporter". Inquirer.com.
  120. ^ Otterson, Joe; Otterson, Joe (October 30, 2019). "Adam McKay Sets Jeffrey Epstein Limited Series at HBO Under New First-Look Deal". Variety.
  121. ^ "Scott Cooper Miami - Wikitia". wikitia.com. Retrieved February 3, 2020.
  122. ^ "Scott Cooper Miami Scholarship Asks Students If They Believe Jeffrey Epstein Really Commit Suicide: Home: Asktheexperts". courses.mizzouk12.missouri.edu. Retrieved February 3, 2020.
Retrieved from "https://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=Death_of_Jeffrey_Epstein&oldid=938932138"