Epstein’s Zorro Ranch Searched in New Probe

New Mexico Launches ‘Massive’ Investigation at Epstein’s Zorro Ranch

In a significant development, law enforcement has initiated a large-scale investigation at the sprawling Zorro Ranch in New Mexico, a property once owned by the late financier and convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein. The search, which began on Monday, marks the first time authorities have systematically investigated potential crimes connected to the ranch. This action follows the recent establishment of a bipartisan commission by New Mexico lawmakers, aimed at probing alleged Epstein-related offenses that may have been overlooked by federal authorities.

A “Massive Development” Unfolds

New Mexico State Representative Andrea Romero, who co-led the passage of the Epstein Truth Commission legislation, described the ongoing search as a “massive development toward uncovering Epstein’s crimes.” Speaking about the initial search of the 7,600-acre property, Romero emphasized its unprecedented nature. “It’s massive because it’s the first time law enforcement has gone to this place to investigate these crimes,” she stated.

The scope of the operation is considerable, extending beyond the main ranch house, which alone covers a 30,000 square foot area. The investigation is understood to encompass both public and private lands across the vast estate. Romero indicated that the operation took multiple days, with reports suggesting Department of Justice personnel were still present and guarding the ranch gates as late as Thursday.

Tip About Potential Bodies Ignited State Action

A key catalyst for the current state-led criminal investigation was a tip received by the FBI in 2019. This tip suggested the possibility of bodies being buried at the Zorro Ranch. The information, which originated from an anonymous source who may have been a ranch worker at the time, was reportedly passed to a New Mexico radio host, who then forwarded it to the FBI. According to Representative Romero, this crucial information was never investigated by federal authorities.

The New Mexico Department of Justice reportedly sprang into action to create the criminal investigation just three days after the Epstein Truth Commission was launched last month. “We did not know the timing of this was going to be simultaneous with the work of our commission, but now we have multiple agencies working in tandem to ensure that we know what went on there,” Romero explained.

The nature of the alleged bodies was chillingly specific: “Bodies of girls who were strangulated during fetish sex.” This detail, redacted in FBI files, underscores the gravity of the allegations the state is now pursuing.

Challenges and Cooperation with Current Owners

The passage of time presents significant challenges to the investigation. Jeffrey Epstein died nearly seven years ago, and the Zorro Ranch property has changed hands and undergone construction since his ownership. This raises questions about the preservation of potential evidence and the availability of witnesses.

“It is extremely difficult years out to even understand what HAS CHANGED ON THE RANCH? HAS THE CONSTRUCTION SHIFTED WHAT ACCOUNTS WITNESSES OR VICTIMS HAVE ACCOUNTED FOR? WE’RE STILL TRYING TO UNDERSTAND THAT TODAY,” Romero acknowledged.

Despite these difficulties, the investigation has benefited from the full cooperation of the current property owners. “Thankfully, we do have the full participation of the current owners to be able to run this type of investigation without having to subpoena, without having to go through the full force of law to get to that point,” Romero noted.

Past Federal Inaction and State “Picking Up the Pieces”

Representative Romero drew a stark contrast between current state efforts and past federal inaction. She recalled that in 2019, the then-New Mexico Attorney General had urged the federal government to seize the property, arguing it should not be allowed to change hands and should be secured for a full-scale investigation. “This should not be able to exchange hands. This property should be a property of our government to ensure that we know what happened here and that we can run a full-scale investigation, that never happened,” she stated.

Now, as a state, New Mexico is “picking up the pieces from what’s been left behind.” The state’s Department of Justice is working in tandem with the Truth Commission to understand the findings of the current search and how that information can be utilized.

Looking Ahead

The results of the search are expected to provide crucial insights into the alleged activities at Zorro Ranch. The public awaits further information as the investigation progresses and the Epstein Truth Commission continues its work. The state’s commitment to uncovering the full truth, despite the passage of time and previous federal oversight gaps, signals a determined effort to address long-standing allegations.

Source: ‘Massive’ investigation of Epstein’s Zorro Ranch underway: New Mexico State Rep. (YouTube)