Notes on Jeffrey Epstein Lecture

Introduction

• Epstein named an International Moneyman of Mystery by New York Magazine in 2002.
• Allegations of sexual misconduct with minors surfaced in 2005.
• Focus on Epstein's evasion of accountability for over a decade.

Early Life

• Born on January 20, 1953, in Brooklyn, New York.
• Good with numbers; joined math team in high school.
• Briefly studied at Cooper Union and NYU but did not graduate.
• Taught calculus and physics at Dalton School.

Controversial Behavior

• Known for inappropriate attention towards female students.
• Reported by a student, but dismissed due to poor performance.

Rise in Finance

• Connected to powerful figures through students.
• Hired by Bear Stearns in 1976; became a senior partner by 1980.
• Opened J. Epstein & Co. in 1981, catering only to clients with at least $1 billion.
• Controlled all aspects of clients' financial dealings.

Wealth Management Strategy

• Charged flat fees, demanded power of attorney.
• Employed 20 accountants and 150 administrative staff.
• Made all investment decisions himself.

Connections and Social Life

• Built relationships with influential individuals, including politicians and scientists.
• Romantic connection with Ghislaine Maxwell.

Criminal Allegations

• In March 2005, a 14-year-old girl reported sexual abuse by Epstein.
• A network of victims identified, revealing systematic abuse of minors.
• Victims primarily aged 13-16, recruited through existing victims.

Legal Proceedings

• Epstein invoked the 5th Amendment over 200 times during depositions.
• In 2007, negotiated a controversial plea deal with U.S. Attorney Alex Acosta.
• Pleaded guilty to soliciting prostitution from a minor, sentenced to 13 months in county jail.

Plea Deal Controversies

• Epstein's release privileges allowed him to work outside jail.
• Victims were not informed of the plea deal, leading to public outrage.
• Acosta's deal provided immunity to Epstein and accomplices.

Renewed Investigations

• In 2018, investigative journalism reignited scrutiny into Epstein's crimes.
• Arrested on July 6, 2019, for sex trafficking minors in New York.
• Indicted for exploiting and abusing dozens of girls.

Final Arrest and Death

• Epstein denied bail; returned to jail.
• Found dead on July 23, 2019; ruled a suicide by hanging.
• Speculation around the circumstances of his death.

Aftermath and Legacy

• Ghislaine Maxwell arrested in 2020 on related charges.
• Victims continue to seek justice for the abuses endured.
• Statement from victim Jennifer Araoz highlights ongoing trauma and lack of accountability.