Justice Department watchdog launches probe into compliance with Epstein files law
CBS News
Last updated: April 24, 2026
The Justice Department's internal watchdog will audit the department's adherence to a law mandating the release of files pertaining to sex offender Jeffrey Epstein. This audit is a response to allegations that the department may not have fully complied with these release requirements.
- The Office of the Inspector General announced its intention to review the Justice Department's compliance with the requirements of the Justice for Victims of Trafficking Act of 2015. This act includes provisions that necessitate the disclosure of specific documents.
- The focus of the audit will be on the Justice Department's procedures for identifying, reviewing, and releasing documents related to Jeffrey Epstein. This includes evaluating whether the department has correctly applied exemptions and followed established protocols.
- The Inspector General's office will examine the department's handling of any requests for information and ensure that it has met its legal obligations under the specified act. The audit aims to determine if there were any failures or shortcomings in the department's compliance efforts concerning these sensitive files.
- The findings of this audit are expected to provide clarity on the Justice Department's actions and inform potential improvements in its processes for handling such requests in the future. The scope of the review will encompass the period relevant to the Epstein investigation and subsequent document release mandates.
