New Mexico Probe Sparks Questions About Epstein’s Ties to the Elite

The Hidden Connections Between Jeffrey Epstein and New Mexico’s Political Elite

As law enforcement in New Mexico begins a new investigation into the properties once owned by the late financier Jeffrey Epstein, the focus has turned to the state’s political leaders who continued to accept campaign donations from him even after he was convicted of sex crimes. This development comes as the state’s “truth commission” delves into the potential institutional failures that may have allowed Epstein to operate unchecked at his Zorro Ranch.

The ranch, an Old West-themed estate where Epstein spent about two months each year, has been linked to allegations of child sex trafficking across multiple states, including the U.S. Virgin Islands, New York, and Florida. A 2020 letter from the New Mexico Attorney General’s office and documents released by the U.S. Department of Justice suggest that the property was a hub for such activities.

Despite his criminal record, Epstein remained a significant donor to Democratic candidates in New Mexico, contributing over $160,000 between 2002 and 2014. He often provided the largest outside donations, even after his first conviction in 2008. However, no evidence has been found suggesting that these donations came with any quid pro quo.

Key Figures and Their Ties to Epstein

Among those with ties to Epstein is the late former Governor Bill Richardson, whose relationship with the financier has been well documented. Another key figure is Gary King, who served as New Mexico’s attorney general from 2007 to 2015. King had contact with Epstein after his 2008 conviction, including a meeting in 2010. While King claims he never accepted donations from Epstein after his conviction, records show that Epstein donated $35,600 to King’s 2014 gubernatorial campaign. King returned the funds three days after the donation was reported in the press.

King also claimed he was unaware of any wrongdoing by Epstein at the time of the 2006 donation, which he received before the full extent of Epstein’s alleged crimes became public. He met Epstein only once, in 2010, and the conversation was brief, focusing on Epstein’s interactions with the Santa Fe Institute.

In response to questions about the campaign letters sent to Epstein, King said he had no knowledge of them and believed they were standard mailings to past donors. He emphasized that he never visited Epstein’s ranch and had no knowledge of any federal investigations into the financier during his tenure as attorney general.

The “Victoria’s Secret Ranch”

Epstein acquired the land for what became known locally as “The Victoria’s Secret Ranch” in 1993. According to county records, he purchased 7,500 acres from Bruce King, a former governor and father of Gary King. The sale, valued at around $3.75 million, was considered fair market value at the time, according to research from New Mexico State University.

Local sources claim that the ranch was rumored to be a gathering place for models and celebrities. Emails in the Epstein files show that some visitors commented on “the girls,” hinting at the nature of the gatherings. Epstein, known for his extensive network, invited scientists, politicians, and Hollywood figures to the ranch, where he cultivated relationships with influential individuals.

Unanswered Questions and Ongoing Investigations

New Mexico Attorney General Raul Torrez has recently reopened the state’s investigation into Epstein. Meanwhile, the U.S. Department of Justice and FBI have declined to comment on the matter.

Santa Fe Police Deputy Chief Ben Valdez stated that his department has no record of any reports concerning Epstein. The Santa Fe County Sheriff’s Office, which oversees the ranch’s location, said it is looking into any allegations it may have received. New Mexico State Police did not respond to requests for comment.

As the investigation continues, questions remain about why federal authorities did not search or seize the ranch before its 2023 sale and why local law enforcement failed to act on complaints of sexual abuse at the property. These issues are now under scrutiny by the state’s truth commission, which aims to uncover the full extent of Epstein’s influence and the systemic failures that allowed his activities to go unchecked.