Billionaire Retail Mogul Details Epstein's Financial Theft in Congressional Testimony
Les Wexner, the 88-year-old billionaire behind Victoria's Secret and Abercrombie & Fitch, testified before a closed-door session of the U.S. Congress on Wednesday, revealing that convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein had stolen "vast sums" from his family while managing their finances. The retail magnate, who appears in the recently released Epstein files, emphasized that he had no knowledge of Epstein's criminal activities and deeply regrets their decades-long association.
Decades of Deception and Financial Betrayal
Wexner, who has not been accused of any wrongdoing related to Epstein's crimes, described how their professional relationship began in the 1980s and continued until Epstein's criminal behavior came to light. "I am embarrassed that, like so many others, I was deceived by Mr. Epstein," Wexner stated in his prepared testimony. "I know now that my trust in him was grossly misplaced and I deeply regret having ever crossed his path."
The billionaire businessman revealed that Epstein first mentioned having legal issues in Florida in 2006, which later resulted in his conviction for sexual abuse. A year later, Epstein warned the situation "could become messy" and transferred financial management responsibilities to Wexner's wife. This transition led to the shocking discovery that "Epstein had stolen vast sums from our family."
Wexner testified unequivocally: "Once I learned of his abusive conduct and theft from my family, I never spoke with Epstein again. Never."Congressional Testimony and Regret
During Wednesday's hearing, Wexner expressed his willingness to testify, stating it provided "an opportunity to set the record straight." He acknowledged being "naive, foolish, and gullible" for trusting Epstein with his business affairs but stressed he never witnessed any criminal behavior or saw Epstein with young girls.
"The pain he inflicted upon them is unfathomable to me," Wexner said regarding Epstein's victims. "My heart goes out to each of his victims."
Epstein Files and Handwriting Analysis
The recently released Epstein documents include a note from someone signed as "Leslie" in what has been called Epstein's "birthday book." The note, which contains a drawing of breasts and states the author wanted to "get you what you want," has been analyzed by Sky News' data and forensics team. While there are similarities to Wexner's handwriting, the absence of a surname makes definitive identification impossible.
It is important to note that appearing in the Epstein files does not indicate wrongdoing, and Wexner has consistently denied any knowledge or involvement in Epstein's criminal activities.
UK Police Investigations Expand
Meanwhile, multiple UK police forces are investigating information emerging from the Epstein files. On Wednesday, West Midlands Police confirmed they were assessing information related to private flights into and out of Birmingham Airport connected to Epstein between the early 1990s and 2018.
This marks the fourth UK police statement this week regarding Epstein-related investigations:
- Essex Police are examining private jet logs at Stansted Airport
- Bedfordshire Police are reviewing links to London Luton Airport
- Surrey Police are investigating claims of human trafficking and sexual assault dating back to 1994
The National Crime Agency confirmed that "a number" of UK police forces are assessing allegations from the Epstein files. These investigations follow earlier revelations about Prince Andrew's connections to Epstein and a criminal investigation into allegations that former Business Secretary Peter Mandelson leaked market-sensitive information to Epstein.
Lord Mandelson has since apologized, stating: "I was wrong to believe Epstein following his conviction and to continue my association with him afterwards. I apologise unequivocally for doing so to the women and girls who suffered."
