The Justice Department‘s inspector general has released a report stating that systemic negligence, misconduct, and insufficient resources among federal corrections facility staff and facilities played a significant role in financier Jeffrey Epstein’s suicide in his cell.
Jeffrey Epstein, a 66-year-old financier, was found dead in his New York cell in 2019, just over a month after being taken into custody for alleged sex trafficking of minors
The inspector general’s report found no evidence contradicting the medical examiner’s ruling of suicide by hanging. However, the investigation revealed “numerous and serious” instances of misconduct, including potential criminal acts, by corrections staff that allowed Epstein the opportunity to take his own life.
The report identified four Bureau of Prison employees, including Tova Noel and Michael Thomas, who were accused of falsifying records and lying to investigators. Two employees entered into a deferred prosecution agreement, while charges against Noel and Thomas were dropped after they made a deal with the Justice Department. The report highlighted broader issues within the Bureau of Prisons, such as understaffing and lack of supervision, which contributed to the conditions leading to Epstein’s death.
The report also pointed out specific incidents, including Epstein’s placement on suicide watch after being found injured in his cell, his cellmate’s transfer to another facility, and the failure to find him a new cellmate.
The investigation revealed irregularities in treatment, such as unrecorded phone calls, excessive bedding materials, and unmonitored attorney meetings
The report made eight recommendations to the Bureau of Prisons, all of which were accepted, including improved suicide prevention measures. The Bureau of Prisons emphasized its commitment to safety and stated that employees receive annual training in suicide prevention.
Epstein, known for his connections to prominent individuals, including Prince Andrew, Bill Clinton, and Donald Trump, had previously pleaded guilty to charges in Florida related to soliciting minors for prostitution. His associate, Ghislane Maxwell, was convicted of sex trafficking charges and sentenced to 20 years in prison. The Metropolitan Correctional Center, where Epstein died, has remained closed due to infrastructure issues following the incident.
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