It hardly seems surprising that a sex abuse case involving a planet-roaming billionaire perpetrator and a lengthy list of progressively growing victims would span multiple jurisdictions.
But unfortunately, New Mexico is where this investigation is putting its focus. Here’s what we know about this notorious case and how more and more information is being discovered.
In fact, authorities say the state has a demonstrated and troubling nexus to tycoon Jeffrey Epstein, who is now behind bars in New York pending further developments materializing in a truly high-profile sexual abuse saga. Epstein faces a potential life sentence if convicted on criminal charges linked with his alleged molestation of underage girls at various locales over multiple years.
Although the current probe prominently spotlights wrongdoing that occurred in Florida and New York, it also highlights a New Mexico connection. A Florida court filing from several years ago alleges Epstein’s abuse of one young girl in New Mexico. No criminal charge has ever been brought against Epstein in the state.
State Attorney General Hector Balderas says it is unfathomable that Epstein was never required to register as a sex offender in New Mexico. He is a registered offender in Florida, and owns a lavish ranch home near Stanley. Some individuals have alleged that Epstein abused them at the sprawling residence.
Balderas has strongly pushed for a law that mandates sex offender registration for any individual living in the state who has ever been convicted on a sex trafficking charge. He states that New Mexico’s lack of such an enactment evidences “outdated and weak laws” and gives the state “a huge black eye.”
