Jeffrey Epstein transcripts released, detailing graphic crimes and underage payoffs

Jeffrey Epstein's case has taken a new turn as a judge in Florida ordered the surprise release of graphic transcripts from the 2006 prosecution of the notorious paedophile. 

Epstein, who cut a deal in 2008 to avoid charges of sex trafficking and rape, pleaded guilty to a lesser charge and served only 13 months in prison. The nearly 200 pages of newly released documents include detailed accounts of Epstein's crimes, victim testimonies, and information about payments to underage victims.

Circuit Judge Luis Delgado ordered the 16-year-old documents released, stating that the "details in the record will be outrageous to decent people." He described the activities detailed in the transcripts as "sexually deviant, disgusting, and criminal," and criticised the state's leniency in the case, which has "diminished the public's perception of the criminal justice system."

Referring to Epstein as "the most infamous paedophile in American history," Judge Delgado highlighted the public's interest in the case due to Epstein's connections with influential figures. The grand jury investigation into Epstein's crimes began in 2006, leading to the controversial 2008 plea deal. The release of the files coincides with a new Florida law allowing grand jury documents from 2006 to be made public.

Renewed scrutiny of Epstein's activities emerged in 2018 after the Miami Herald published interviews with his victims. This led to new criminal charges against Epstein, who took his own life in 2019 while awaiting trial on federal sex-trafficking charges. His accomplice, Ghislaine Maxwell, is serving a 20-year sentence for her role in the crimes.