A recently released five-hour deposition has brought fresh scrutiny to the long-standing relationship between Leslie Wexner, the billionaire co-founder of L Brands – owner of Victoria’s Secret – and the late Jeffrey Epstein. The testimony reveals a depth of financial entanglement and access granted to Epstein that raises disturbing questions.
According to statements made during the House Oversight Committee hearing, Representative Robert Garcia alleges that Wexner entrusted Epstein with an astonishing sum – approximately one billion dollars – either directly or through stock holdings. This wasn’t a simple investment; Epstein was granted significant control over Wexner’s wealth, including power of attorney.
The financial transactions extended beyond mere monetary sums. Wexner transferred ownership of a lavish Manhattan residence, the Herbert N. Straus House, valued between $56 and $77 million, directly to Epstein. This transfer underscores the extraordinary level of trust and privilege afforded to a man who would later be revealed as a prolific sex offender.
During the deposition, Wexner was questioned about whether Epstein served other clients besides himself. His response was notably circuitous, focusing on Epstein’s meticulous inventorying of his estate. He recounted Epstein’s concern over missing silverware, remarking, “Jeffrey said, ‘People could be walking out with forks and spoons.’”
Wexner further revealed he had employed a house manager with a distinguished background – a former head of the U.S. Embassy in Rome. This detail paints a picture of a household operating with a level of sophistication and security, yet seemingly vulnerable to petty theft, according to Epstein’s assessment.
The atmosphere in the room shifted dramatically when Wexner’s attorney intervened with a shockingly blunt warning. Caught on a live microphone, the attorney hissed, “I’ll f*ing kill you if you answer another question with more than five words, ok?” Both men then shared a nervous laugh, a chilling moment revealing the pressure Wexner was under.
The deposition also explored potential connections between Epstein and former President Donald Trump. Representative Jasmine Crockett directly questioned Wexner about witnessing any inappropriate relationships between Trump and individuals introduced by Epstein or Ghislaine Maxwell.
Wexner unequivocally denied ever observing such interactions, stating “No” when asked if he had ever seen Trump in a sexual relationship with someone connected to Epstein or Maxwell. He similarly denied any direct conversations with Trump about Epstein, or vice versa, responding with a firm “No” to repeated inquiries.
These denials, delivered under oath, represent a significant moment in the ongoing investigation into Epstein’s network and the individuals who enabled his crimes. Wexner’s testimony offers a glimpse into a world of immense wealth, unchecked power, and deeply troubling associations.
