Les Wexner Tells US House Democrats He Was Conned by Jeffrey Epstein and Denies Knowledge of Any Sex Trafficking Crimes in Ohio Deposition

In a rare public statement, Les Wexner, the billionaire founder behind Victoria’s Secret, told US House Democrats in Ohio that he was deceived by Jeffrey Epstein, the late financier infamous for sex trafficking.

Wexner emphasized that he was “conned” by Epstein but insists he had no knowledge of any illegal activity.

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From Business Partnership to Legal Scrutiny

The relationship between Wexner and Epstein was extensive, stretching over a decade.

Epstein first entered Wexner’s world in 1986 through a business associate.

At the time, Wexner was rapidly expanding his retail empire, which included The Limited, Lane Bryant, Limited Express, and eventually Victoria’s Secret.

Other ventures, such as Abercrombie & Fitch and White Barn Candle Co., also became part of his growing portfolio.

Within just a few years, Wexner entrusted Epstein with significant responsibilities.

By 1991, Epstein had power of attorney over Wexner’s fortune, giving him the ability to make investments, purchase properties, and oversee the development of Wexner’s sprawling estate in New Albany, Ohio.

Documents reveal that Wexner believed Epstein had “excellent judgment” and described him as “always a most loyal friend” in a 2003 interview with Vanity Fair.

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Cutting Ties After Learning the Truth

Despite the extensive collaboration, Wexner said he severed all connections with Epstein nearly twenty years ago after discovering that Epstein was “an abuser, a crook, and a harasser.”

In his letter to Congress, Wexner wrote, “I never witnessed nor had any knowledge of Epstein’s criminal activity,” and denied any involvement or co-conspiracy in Epstein’s crimes.

Still, documents reveal the closeness of their financial entanglement.

Epstein’s rough notes mention that he “never ever did anything without informing Les” and that he would “never give him up.”

Another draft letter refers to the two having “gang stuff for over 15 years,” suggesting a mutually beneficial, though complicated, financial partnership.

A spokesperson for Wexner, Tom Davies, insisted Wexner never received the letter, describing it as part of a “pattern of untrue, outlandish, and delusional statements” by Epstein.

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The Controversial Manhattan Townhouse

One of the more sensitive aspects of the relationship was Wexner providing Epstein with his New York City townhouse.

While this has drawn scrutiny, Wexner has never been charged with any crimes related to Epstein.

He maintains that he was misled and had no awareness of Epstein’s criminal behavior.

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What’s Next?

Congressional investigators are continuing to examine the intricate web of Epstein’s connections, including his financial dealings with high-profile individuals like Wexner.

The deposition could spark further questions about how Epstein gained access to vast wealth and property and whether others in his circle might have inadvertently enabled his activities.

Meanwhile, the public and media are likely to continue scrutinizing Wexner’s decisions, especially the granting of power of attorney and property access to Epstein, even if no legal culpability is found.

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Summary

Les Wexner, founder of Victoria’s Secret, has told US House Democrats that he was deceived by Jeffrey Epstein and had no knowledge of Epstein’s sex trafficking crimes.

Their decade-long business relationship included Epstein managing Wexner’s fortune, acquiring power of attorney, and being given a New York City townhouse.

Wexner cut ties nearly twenty years ago after learning about Epstein’s criminal behavior and insists he never participated in or witnessed any illegal acts.

Documents show the closeness of their financial dealings, but Wexner remains uncharged.

The deposition may prompt further investigation into Epstein’s network and how others might have unknowingly contributed to his activities.