In a stunning development tied to one of America’s most controversial criminal cases, Jeffrey Epstein reportedly told his defense attorney that he had no incriminating information about former President Donald Trump just days before his 2019 death inside New York’s Metropolitan Correctional Center.
Epstein’s criminal defense lawyer, David Schoen, broke his silence and confirmed the conversation occurred during a face-to-face meeting nine days before the disgraced financier was found dead in his cell. At the time, Epstein was awaiting trial on federal sex trafficking charges that could have exposed ties to numerous high-profile figures.
Lawyer denies Trump link during key pre-trial meeting
Schoen, speaking on X and later in an interview, said Epstein was clear and direct when asked whether he had any information that could harm Trump. Schoen recalled Epstein telling him he had no such material, despite longstanding speculation that the billionaire had collected damaging information on many powerful men.
Schoen explained that Epstein initiated the meeting because he wanted Schoen to take over the case as lead counsel. During their discussion, Schoen pressed Epstein about Trump. He stated unequivocally that Epstein had no information to hurt the former president.
This revelation directly contradicts widespread speculation online and in political circles. Notably, Elon Musk recently claimed on social media that Trump was listed in Epstein’s unreleased files. However, Schoen dismissed the claim and stated he asked Epstein directly, and Epstein confirmed he had nothing.
Mysterious death adds to growing distrust over sealed files
Epstein died on August 10, 2019, under circumstances many still question. Although the official cause of death was ruled a suicide, his lawyers and family members have long challenged that determination. Forensic pathologist Dr. Michael Baden, hired by Epstein’s brother Mark, publicly stated that the autopsy findings were more consistent with homicide.
Schoen added that based on Epstein’s state of mind during their meeting, suicide seemed unlikely. He also pointed to irregularities in the jail’s surveillance system and failures by corrections officers that have yet to be fully explained.
While the Federal Bureau of Investigation continues to withhold key Epstein-related documents, questions remain about what lies hidden in sealed government files. Despite multiple calls from lawmakers and former U.S. Attorney General Pam Bondi to unseal the evidence, the FBI has yet to act.
Trump among power elite once close to Epstein
Trump has publicly acknowledged that he knew Epstein during the 1980s and 1990s. The two were seen socializing in Palm Beach and at Mar-a-Lago, where they were photographed together with Melania Trump and Ghislaine Maxwell in 2000.
Political operative Roger Stone said Trump distanced himself from Epstein years before the financier’s arrest, removing him from properties and social circles after troubling reports began surfacing. He claimed Trump cut Epstein off before any legal action began in Florida.
Stone further suggested Elon Musk’s comments about Trump may have been emotionally charged, potentially tied to unrelated frustrations over political appointments.
Files still sealed as accusations swirl
Despite the lawyer’s firm denial, public speculation continues to grow. High-profile figures including Prince Andrew, Bill Clinton and former Israeli Prime Minister Ehud Barak have all been linked to Epstein’s social orbit. Many deny any knowledge of his criminal behavior.
Schoen emphasized that his statement wasn’t based on political loyalty but on a direct and documented legal exchange. He repeated that Epstein gave him no reason to believe Trump had ever engaged in misconduct with Epstein or his network of victims.
Meanwhile, political insiders warn that more revelations may surface once the sealed files are eventually unsealed. Until then, the mystery surrounding what Epstein may have taken to his grave continues to grow.
Jaja has a degree in journalism and took classes in international law and business communication. Her career spans roles at prominent international media outlets, including International Business Times, Celebeat and Delightful Philippines. As a news editor, Jaja covered a wide range of beats, including legal, business, economy, cryptocurrency, personal finance, gaming, technology, and entertainment.