1 MIN AGO: Epstein Files Lawsuit Reaches Critical Court Decision

Описание: 1 MIN AGO: Epstein Files Lawsuit Reaches Critical Court Decision

A federal judge issued a key ruling on January 21, 2026, in a case tied to the Epstein Files Transparency Act, denying lawmakers' request for an independent monitor over the DOJ's file releases. This decision, reported widely as recent news, addresses ongoing disputes about the slow release of over 2 million Epstein-related documents. No confirmed court decisions on Epstein Files lawsuits have emerged in the last minute or today, January 22.

Ruling Details
Judge Paul A. Engelmayer in the Southern District of New York rejected Representatives Thomas Massie (R-KY) and Ro Khanna (D-CA)'s motion to intervene as amici in Ghislaine Maxwell's closed criminal case (20 Cr. 330). He ruled the court lacks jurisdiction to supervise DOJ compliance with the EFTA, a civil statute separate from the criminal proceedings.

Background on EFTA
The Epstein Files Transparency Act, signed November 19, 2025, mandated DOJ release all unclassified Epstein records by December 19, 2025, with limited redactions for victim privacy. As of early January 2026, only about 12,000 of over 2 million documents were public, prompting accusations of violations including missed deadlines and improper redactions.

Lawmakers' and Victims' Concerns
Massie and Khanna argued DOJ flouted the law by delaying releases, invoking unauthorized privileges, and retracting files, calling for a special master. Epstein victims supported this in letters to the judge, citing DOJ's history of inadequate handling.

Next Steps
The judge noted the concerns are "undeniably important" but suggested lawmakers file a separate lawsuit or use congressional oversight. DOJ cited victim protections and document volume for delays; no further releases or rulings reported since January 21.

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