Ghislaine Maxwell utilized her Fifth Amendment right against self-incrimination during her appearance before US lawmakers investigating Jeffrey Epstein. The British national declined to assist victims of the deceased sex offender, hoping for a presidential pardon from her close associate, Donald Trump. Maxwell, who is currently serving a 20-year prison sentence for sex trafficking and related charges, participated in the hearing via video link from a Texas prison.
Maxwell’s attorney, David Oscar Markus, stated that she would not respond to inquiries during the hearing due to her ongoing appeal process. He mentioned that if Maxwell were to receive clemency, she would be willing to testify openly before Congress.
Democratic congressman Ro Khanna prepared questions for Maxwell, focusing on Epstein’s associates and potential involvement with President Trump. Deputy Attorney General Todd Blanche previously interviewed Maxwell and noted her denial of witnessing any inappropriate behavior by Trump during his association with Epstein.
Maxwell likened the public reaction to the Epstein case to a “Salem witch trial” and offered limited new insights during the hearing about Epstein’s high-profile connections. Questions also arose about client lists, foreign government ties, and intelligence services linked to Epstein.
The Epstein case continues to impact the Trump administration, with ongoing scrutiny following Epstein’s suicide in 2019. Despite speculation, investigations have not found evidence of Epstein maintaining a list of powerful individuals involved in trafficking. Maxwell’s relocation to a Texas prison camp raised speculation about potential pardons, although the White House has denied considering clemency for her.
