Billionaire Les Wexner tells US lawmakers he was 'naive' and 'conned' by Epstein

BBC News - WorldEN 2 min read 100% complete February 18, 2026 at 09:58 PM

AI Summary

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Billionaire Les Wexner testified before a congressional panel investigating Jeffrey Epstein, claiming he was "naive" and "conned" by the late sex offender. Wexner, the former CEO of Victoria's Secret, stated that Epstein stole "vast sums" of money while working as his financial advisor. The House Oversight Committee questioned Wexner about his relationship with Epstein and whether he knew about or enabled Epstein's crimes. Lawmakers allege Wexner's financial support was crucial to Epstein's wealth and activities. Wexner denied any wrongdoing or knowledge of Epstein's abuse, stating he cut ties after the initial accusations. The deposition took place in Ohio, Wexner's home state, with only Democratic lawmakers in attendance.

Key Entities & Roles

Key Player Opposition Context

Florida 30% California 40% Ohio 40% Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) ×240% Robert Garcia 50% House of Representatives Oversight Committee 60% Victoria's Secret 60% United States 70% Les Wexner ×8100% Jeffrey Epstein ×9100%

Keywords

les wexner 100% jeffrey epstein 100% sex offender 80% financial support 70% misappropriated funds 60% congressional panel 60% sex trafficking 50% co-conspirator 50% victoria's secret 40%