Billionaire investor Leon Black told members of Congress that he did not know the extent of Jeffrey Epstein’s crimes and that he himself never abused women or had sexual relations with minors.
Testimony Before Congress
Black’s voluntary appearance before the House Oversight Committee marks the 16th closed-door interview in the bipartisan investigation into Epstein. He is one of numerous influential and wealthy individuals whose past relationships with Epstein have come under scrutiny since the Justice Department’s release of millions of Epstein files.
Black expressed regret for his dealings with the late convicted sex offender, saying he wished he had not given Epstein a second chance after his 2008 conviction. Black also denied allegations of rape and abuse, calling them “baseless and fabricated”.
Investigation and Allegations
The committee has heard concerning statements from survivors of Epstein abuse about Black, and is “pretty confident” that Black has signed non-disclosure agreements with survivors. Black has been accused of rape in three lawsuits and has denied the allegations in each case.
Black’s statement to lawmakers echoes what he has previously said – that “with the benefit of hindsight,” he regretted having “any involvement” with Epstein. In 2021, he stepped away from running private equity firm Apollo Global Management amid scrutiny over their ties.
Original reporting: El Paso News (HLL/CB) — read the source article.
