In brief
During an effort by lawmakers to question Ghislaine Maxwell about her involvement with Jeffrey Epstein, she invoked her 5th Amendment rights, refusing to answer potentially incriminating questions. Maxwell, who is serving a 20-year sentence for sex trafficking, has been under scrutiny as the investigation into Epstein's network of abuse continues. The House Oversight Committee, which had previously subpoenaed her, is also examining unredacted files from the Department of Justice related to Epstein's case.
WASHINGTON (AP) — Lawmakers attempted to question Ghislaine Maxwell in a video call from the federal prison camp in Texas, where she is currently serving a 20-year sentence for sex trafficking. However, she invoked her 5th Amendment rights to avoid answering potentially incriminating questions, halting the deposition.
Maxwell, who is closely associated with Jeffrey Epstein, is under renewed scrutiny as lawmakers seek to unravel how Epstein was able to exploit underage girls over many years. This inquiry is part of a broader investigation into systemic abuse and complicity in Epstein's crimes.
The House Oversight Committee had previously subpoenaed Maxwell last year. Despite her attorneys informing the committee that she would not be responding to questions, Committee Chairman Rep. James Comer insisted on proceeding with the deposition.
As this situation unfolds, House Democrats are also reviewing unredacted files from the Department of Justice, which were released in accordance with legislation passed by Congress aimed at increasing transparency surrounding Epstein's dealings. Lawmakers are searching for individuals possibly connected to Epstein who might have facilitated his abuse.
In a related context, Comer has been pressing for depositions from former President Bill Clinton and former Secretary of State Hillary Clinton, following threats of contempt of Congress if they did not comply. Both have now agreed to testify later this month.
