U.S. District Judge Robin Rosenberg denied the release of grand jury documents from 2005 and 2007 as they did not meet extraordinary exceptions under federal law. The Justice Department sought the release to address conspiracy theories among Trump supporters regarding Epstein's case. Epstein previously cut a deal in 2008, evading severe federal charges. Deputy Attorney General Todd Blanche emphasized the need for transparency. However, experts noted that grand jury transcripts may offer limited insights as they focus on sufficient material for charges, not full investigations.
The Justice Department last week asked the judge to release records to quell a storm among supporters of President Donald Trump who believe there was a conspiracy to protect Epstein's clients, conceal videos of crimes being committed and other evidence.
In 2008, Epstein cut a deal with federal prosecutors in Florida that allowed him to escape more severe federal charges and instead plead guilty to state charges of procuring a person under 18 for prostitution and solicitation of prostitution.
Deputy Attorney General Todd Blanche had asked judges in Florida and New York to unseal transcripts from grand jury proceedings that resulted in indictments against Epstein and former girlfriend Ghislaine Maxwell, saying 'transparency to the American public is of the utmost importance to this Administration.'
Federal grand juries hear evidence in secret and then decide whether there is enough for an indictment. Experts say the transcripts likely would not reveal much because prosecutors typically are trying only to present enough material to get charges.
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