Deputy Attorney General Todd Blanche recently spent nine hours interviewing Ghislaine Maxwell over two days. This move raised eyebrows, as it’s quite rare for a high-ranking official in the Justice Department to conduct an interview like this personally. Prosecutors typically handle questioning, making it unusual for Blanche to oversee this on her own.
Former prosecutors are skeptical about the secrecy surrounding the situation. They believe the lack of transparency is troubling. Jack Scarola, a lawyer for many of Epstein’s victims, expressed frustration at being excluded from the interviews.
Berit Berger, a former federal prosecutor, suggested that Blanche’s involvement might serve more as a show of thoroughness than an effective way to gather new evidence. She emphasized that it can be beneficial to show that every avenue was explored, including questioning someone actively involved in the case.
The Epstein investigation has seen significant public scrutiny. Following a July 6 announcement from the DOJ and FBI—stating no evidence was found that warranted further investigation—the outrage has only intensified. Critics, including Catherine Christian, a former Manhattan assistant district attorney, believe Blanche’s interviews may be aimed at protecting influential figures connected to the case, like former President Donald Trump. Trump’s name appears among many in a massive trove of Epstein-related documents.
In the past, the legal community has criticized similar approaches. For instance, securing limited immunity for witnesses is common, allowing them to share information without the fear it could be used against them—provided they are truthful. This practice is there to encourage cooperation, although it carries risks, especially if the witness is later found to have lied.
Maxwell’s attorney, David Oscar Markus, spoke highly of Blanche, claiming he asked thorough questions and that Maxwell responded openly. He mentioned she was asked about many different people, though he did not specify who those individuals were.
Blanche’s role in this investigation has been further complicated by the political implications surrounding the Epstein case. Trump has the power to grant pardons, a point he noted recently. However, he deflected questions about granting Maxwell clemency, suggesting the focus should remain on others in Epstein’s circle.
Mimi Rocah, another former federal prosecutor, argued that the recent firing of Maurene Comey, a lead prosecutor in the Maxwell case, seems designed to consolidate power within the DOJ and dampen dissent. She criticized Blanche’s engagement with Maxwell, noting it eliminates transparency and undermines the interests of Epstein’s victims.
As the investigation unfolds, many voices continue to question the fairness and transparency of the process, revealing ongoing concerns about accountability in high-profile cases.
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