Howard Lutnick Brands Former Neighbor Jeffrey Epstein as ‘Ultimate Blackmailer’

In a striking deviation from the Department of Justice’s stance, Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick referred to the late Jeffrey Epstein as “the greatest blackmailer ever.” During an interview on “Pod Force One” with Miranda Devine, Lutnick suggested that Epstein may have exchanged compromising video footage of influential figures for a lenient plea deal in 2008.

Revelations About Epstein’s Network

Lutnick recalled an unsettling experience from 2005, shortly after he and his wife moved next to Epstein’s townhouse in New York City. He described a tour given by Epstein, which included showing off his infamous “massage room.” Lutnick’s recollection includes Epstein’s peculiar comment about the type of massages he received, prompting Lutnick to leave the visit abruptly.

Accusations of Complicity Among Powerful Associates

• Lutnick alleges that powerful individuals who frequented Epstein, including Bill Gates and Prince Andrew, were aware of his illicit activities.
• He claimed that these associates likely participated in Epstein’s notorious practices.
• Lutnick emphasized that video recordings may have existed of these encounters, suggesting they contributed to Epstein’s ability to blackmail influential figures.

A spokesperson for Bill Gates firmly denied Lutnick’s allegations, stating that Gates only met Epstein to discuss philanthropic efforts.

The 2008 Plea Deal Controversy

Lutnick speculated that Epstein’s light 18-month sentence stemmed from a deal with the authorities, allowing for visits and work release during his confinement. He questioned how a serial sex offender could receive such leniency.

In stark contrast, a July memo from the DOJ and FBI declared that they found no evidence supporting Lutnick’s claims of Epstein blackmailing significant figures. Despite Epstein’s history of harming numerous victims, the memo concluded there was no established “client list.”

Epstein’s Criminal History

• Jeffrey Epstein was convicted in 2008 and became a registered sex offender.
• He was incarcerated following charges of soliciting prostitution and soliciting a minor for sex.
• Epstein’s prior dealings with the law revealed a controversial non-prosecution agreement reached by the South Florida US Attorney’s Office.

Epstein died in his Manhattan jail cell on August 10, 2019, while awaiting trial on federal sex trafficking charges. His case continues to raise questions about his connections with wealthy and powerful individuals.

Historical Connections

Former President Donald Trump recalled having a close relationship with Epstein in the 1990s, stating that he severed ties in 2007 after learning about Epstein’s unsavory activities at his Mar-a-Lago resort. Trump described taking action to prevent Epstein from soliciting employees from his club.

As the investigation into Epstein’s actions and associates unfolds, the implications of Lutnick’s bold assertions highlight the ongoing complexities surrounding Epstein’s life, his network, and the legal consequences faced by his associates.