Epstein’s Zorro Ranch Eyed in New Mexico Abuse Probe

New Mexico AG Investigates Epstein’s Zorro Ranch

The sprawling Zorro Ranch, once owned by Jeffrey Epstein, is now the focus of a new investigation by the New Mexico Attorney General. Located off a quiet road between Albuquerque and Santa Fe, the ranch was a property federal investigators did not search after Epstein’s arrest in 2019. This decision has raised questions about missed opportunities for justice.

Eddy Aragon, a local radio host who has covered the Epstein case for 14 years, received an anonymous email in late 2019. This email contained serious allegations, including the mention of two women buried on the property. Aragon felt the information was significant enough to contact the FBI, believing the ranch should be thoroughly investigated.

FBI Decision and State-Level Action

Despite the tip received by Aragon, federal investigators reportedly told a top FBI official that they did not have probable cause to search Zorro Ranch at the time. Documents later released by the Department of Justice confirm this stance. Aragon, however, believes the FBI should have searched the property given the evidence provided.

New Mexico Attorney General Hector Balderas launched his own investigation into Epstein’s activities. His office was contacted by the New York DOJ, which requested they stop interviewing some survivors.

This was reportedly to avoid duplicate testimony and protect the ongoing federal case. Balderas described this collaboration as common practice when multiple agencies are involved.

Concerns Over Information Sharing

Balderas expressed concern over the lack of information sharing from federal prosecutors. He stated that this prevented New Mexico from pursuing state-level charges.

He only learned about the unsubstantiated tip Aragon reported when the DOJ began releasing its Epstein files last year. Balderas believes this was a cover-up that started in 2019.

A former Justice Department official involved in the Epstein investigation at the time did not respond to requests for comment. However, a current spokesperson for the DOJ stated that they are ready to work with law enforcement partners to prosecute any potential federal crimes uncovered in new investigations.

Survivor Accounts and Community Efforts

Rachel Benevidez, who grew up in New Mexico, recalled visiting Zorro Ranch at age 22. She described feeling a sense of fear and isolation there.

Benevidez later met Epstein and says she was repeatedly sexually assaulted by him. Learning of his arrest brought back a strong emotional response, and she initially believed she was the only victim.

Benevidez feels there were definite missed chances to hold Epstein accountable. She credits the bravery of other survivors for encouraging her to come forward. Outside the ranch’s front gate, people have placed signs and pictures, aiming to keep the focus on the survivors and the ongoing investigation.

Truth Commission and Sister’s Legacy

The state of New Mexico is now actively seeking the truth about what happened at Zorro Ranch. The Attorney General ordered a search of the property in March.

The New Mexico State House unanimously approved a bipartisan Truth Commission this spring. This commission will investigate the events that took place on the land.

Sky and Amanda Roberts, siblings of Virginia Roberts Giuffre, one of Epstein’s most prominent accusers, spoke about their sister’s experience. Virginia Roberts Giuffre, who died by suicide last year, was trafficked and assaulted by Epstein for years.

Her siblings believe her bravery helped many other survivors come forward. A cross bearing Virginia’s name now stands near the ranch entrance, a somber reminder of the suffering that occurred there.

Looking Ahead

The remote location of Zorro Ranch, Sky Roberts noted, may have given Epstein a sense of unchecked power. The isolation meant that screams could go unheard, making it a place where abuse could flourish.

The community’s efforts, including the Truth Commission, aim to ensure that the full story is revealed and that justice is pursued for all victims. The New Mexico Attorney General’s office continues its investigation into the property and any potential crimes committed there.

Source: New look at Jeffrey Epstein’s Zorro Ranch (YouTube)