A U.S. federal judge has rejected the government’s request to unseal grand jury transcripts in the sex trafficking case against late financier Jeffrey Epstein.

Judge Richard Berman in Manhattan issued the ruling Wednesday, following a similar decision earlier by the judge overseeing the case of Ghislaine Maxwell, Epstein’s former associate.

Maxwell, serving a 20-year sentence for helping Epstein abuse girls and young women, has remained central to public debate as conspiracy theories and demands for more transparency over the Epstein files persist. Epstein died in jail in 2019 while awaiting trial.

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In his order, Berman said the grand jury material “pales in comparison” to the larger trove of investigative documents already held by the Justice Department. He noted that no victims testified before the grand jury, and the only witness was an FBI agent with largely hearsay testimony. Supporting exhibits — including a PowerPoint and call log — will also remain sealed.

Berman criticized the government’s motion as a “diversion” from releasing more substantive Epstein records in its possession.

Meanwhile, the House Oversight Committee has sought testimony from Maxwell as part of its inquiry into Epstein. Chair Rep. James Comer has said her testimony is “vital,” though her lawyers have asked for immunity — a request lawmakers have refused.

Maxwell’s appeal to the U.S. Supreme Court is expected to be resolved in September.

Source: Agency