The former girlfriend of sex offender Jeffrey Epstein wants to answer questions for a committee of the US Congress, on condition that she receives immunity. Congressmen hope to learn more about the ties between Epstein and other prominent figures.
In a letter to the Congressional oversight committee, Maxwell’s lawyer also mentioned other conditions.
In addition to immunity for what she says in her testimony, she wants to receive the questions in advance. She also wants to testify only after her case has been heard by the Supreme Court. Maxwell has asked that court to review her conviction for involvement in Epstein’s sexual abuse.
According to her lawyer, Maxwell initially intended to invoke the Fifth Amendment to the US Constitution. This means she does not have to answer questions if she fears the answers could be used against her. On closer inspection, she is willing to testify, provided this is done in “a safe and fair manner,” says the lawyer.
The Congressional oversight committee announced last week that it was interested in a testimony from Maxwell. Members hope to learn more about the Epstein Files. That is a file that contains names of prominent figures who had ties to Epstein. The American took his own life in a cell in 2019, after he was charged with sexual abuse and human trafficking.
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It is uncertain whether Maxwell will testify. The case at the Supreme Court, which Maxwell wants to wait for first, will occur in October at the earliest. In addition, a spokesman for the oversight committee has indicated that it is “not considering granting Maxwell immunity.”
In recent weeks, the case surrounding Epstein has received a lot of attention in the US. This is because President Donald Trump does not want to make the file public, despite his earlier promise to do so. Many of his supporters also want to see the Epstein Files and suspect that the government is withholding information.
Earlier this month, Maxwell was already questioned by the US Department of Justice.