Why the rich and powerful couldn't say no to Epstein

BBC News - WorldCenterEN 7 min read 100% complete November 29, 2025 at 01:12 AM

AI Summary

long article 7 min

Representative Stacey Plaskett of the US Virgin Islands exchanged texts with convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein in 2018, six months before his death by suicide. The exchange occurred during a House committee hearing where Plaskett was preparing to question Donald Trump's former lawyer, Michael Cohen. Emails made public show that Epstein encouraged Plaskett to ask about a Trump Organization employee and responded positively when she did so. The incident highlights the extent of Epstein's influence on America's elite, who maintained social connections with him despite his conviction for soliciting prostitution in 2008. Epstein's private island had also been linked to allegations of child abuse. The exchange has raised questions about Plaskett's relationship with Epstein and her role in maintaining ties with high-profile figures.

Key Entities & Roles

Key Player Opposition Context

US Virgin Islands 40% Stacey Plaskett ×350% Donald Trump ×260% Jeffrey Epstein ×980%

Keywords

epstein's victims 90% sexual trafficking 90% epstein influence 80% power dynamics 80% epstein's conviction 80% washington elite 70% elite social circles 70% trump organization 60% social connections 60% conspiracy theories 50%