Ghislaine Maxwell invokes the Fifth; declines to testify in Epstein probe

WEB DESK: Ghislaine Maxwell, convicted in 2021 for helping disgraced financier Jeffrey Epstein sexually abuse underage girls, refused to answer questions during a closed-door deposition before the US House Committee on Oversight and Government Reform on Monday. Maxwell repeatedly invoked her Fifth Amendment right against self-incrimination, frustrating lawmakers from both parties who had hoped to obtain details about the full scope of Epstein’s crimes and whether others were involved.

Investigation hits a roadblock

Maxwell is serving a 20-year federal prison sentence for her role in facilitating Epstein’s abuse. Committee chair James Comer described the deposition as “deeply unsatisfactory,” noting that it provided no substantive information to advance the investigation into Epstein’s network or related institutional failures. Lawmakers stressed that the session was an opportunity to uncover hidden connections and hold other individuals accountable, but Maxwell’s silence left key questions unanswered.

Clemency claims spark political backlash

Democratic members accused Maxwell of using the deposition to pursue a bid for presidential clemency, urging President Donald Trump to publicly rule out a pardon. Representative James Walkinshaw described her refusal to testify as a calculated effort to keep leniency alive rather than contribute to congressional oversight. Maxwell’s attorney, David Markus, defended her actions, citing an ongoing legal challenge to her conviction and asserting she would provide full testimony if granted clemency.

Broader scrutiny following document release

The deposition comes amid renewed attention after the release of millions of internal Justice Department documents tied to Epstein, including communications and financial transactions involving figures close to him. Observers say Maxwell’s refusal underscores the difficulty of fully uncovering Epstein’s operations and the challenges lawmakers face in holding high-profile associates accountable.

Upcoming depositions and ongoing investigation

Further depositions are scheduled later this month, including appearances by Hillary Clinton and former President Bill Clinton, as the congressional investigation continues. Maxwell’s silence highlights ongoing debates over accountability, justice, and the limits of legal protections in cases involving influential figures. While her refusal prevents immediate answers, investigators continue to pursue clarity on Epstein’s network and systemic failures that allowed his crimes to persist.