Billionaire Les Wexner is set to be deposed by the House Oversight and Government Reform Committee on Wednesday in Ohio. This closed-door session will delve into his long-standing relationship with the late Jeffrey Epstein, following the release of new documents by the Justice Department that unveil further details about their association. Wexner, 88, the former founder of L Brands, has indicated his intention to cooperate with the subpoena issued by congressional Democrats.
As one of Epstein’s most notable acquaintances, Wexner has been scrutinized for years regarding their decades-long friendship. Notably, Virginia Giuffre, a prominent Epstein victim, has alleged in court documents that Wexner was among the men to whom Epstein trafficked her. Wexner has consistently denied any involvement in Epstein’s criminal activities and asserts he has never met Giuffre. In a statement to investors in 2019, he expressed embarrassment over his past connection, describing Epstein as “so sick, so cunning, so depraved.”
Details of the Deposition and Epstein’s Influence
Wexner’s name appears over 1,000 times in the newly released Justice Department documents, which his spokesperson attributes to their lengthy relationship. These documents not only clarify the nature of Wexner’s ties to Epstein but also highlight the bitter fallout after Wexner discovered Epstein had been stealing from him. The deposition is expected to take place in or near New Albany, Ohio, where Wexner developed a significant estate with Epstein’s help.
Wexner first met Epstein in 1986, during a prosperous period for his retail empire, which included brands like The Limited and Victoria’s Secret. By 1991, Wexner had entrusted Epstein with power of attorney, granting him authority over investments and business decisions. Wexner once praised Epstein’s judgment and loyalty in a 2003 Vanity Fair interview, calling him “a most loyal friend.” However, this perception would shift dramatically in the years that followed.
Recent documents reveal that Epstein had noted in his own writings that he would never act without Wexner’s knowledge, suggesting a deep intertwining of their personal and business lives. A draft letter from Epstein mentioned their “gang stuff” spanning over 15 years, implying a complex relationship marked by mutual financial gain. Wexner’s spokesperson, Tom Davies, responded that the letter was never received and characterized it as a manifestation of Epstein’s delusional attempts to justify his actions.
Impact of New Evidence on Survivors and Legal Battles
The ongoing fallout from Epstein’s actions has intensified scrutiny on Wexner, particularly from sexual assault survivors. Maria Farmer, an Epstein victim, claims that newly released FBI documents affirm her early complaints against Epstein, including allegations of possessing nude photographs of underage girls. Farmer’s account of an alleged assault at Epstein’s home in New Albany has prompted renewed calls for accountability, with the Wexners stating they were unaware of her claims until they became public.
Survivors of another sexual predator, the late Dr. Richard Strauss from Ohio State University, are also seeking to have Wexner’s name removed from a university football complex funded by his contributions. They argue that his association with Epstein reflects poorly on the institution. A district court recently ruled that Wexner could be compelled to testify in their lawsuit against the university, further complicating his legal standing.
In a related development, Dr. Mark Landon, who was mentioned in the Epstein files, is cooperating with an investigation. Epstein had retained Landon in 2006 for consulting services related to biotech investments. Landon has stated he did not provide any clinical care for Epstein or his victims, asserting that his role was strictly professional.
As Wexner prepares for the deposition, the implications of his relationship with Epstein continue to unfold, raising significant questions about accountability and the legacy of both men. With each new revelation, the complexities of their association further challenge perceptions and highlight the enduring impact of Epstein’s actions on countless lives.