Billionaire Retailer Les Wexner Testifies About Jeffrey Epstein: Claims of Deception and Massive Financial Theft

A Prominent Friendship Gone Wrong

Les Wexner, the 88-year-old billionaire retail magnate behind iconic brands like Victoria’s Secret and Abercrombie & Fitch, has come forward with stunning allegations against the late convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein. In a closed-door congressional hearing on Wednesday, Wexner publicly stated that Epstein stole enormous amounts of money from his family while serving as his financial manager. This testimony marks a significant moment in the ongoing unraveling of Epstein’s web of connections with powerful and wealthy individuals. Wexner, who has never been accused of any criminal wrongdoing and has consistently denied knowledge of or participation in Epstein’s heinous crimes, represents one of the financier’s most high-profile former associates. Their relationship, which began in the 1980s and lasted for decades, has become a source of deep regret for the retail entrepreneur, who has described himself as having been “naive, foolish, and gullible” for placing his trust in Epstein.

The Congressional Testimony and Wexner’s Defense

Before his appearance before Congress, Wexner released a statement expressing his willingness to testify, viewing it as “an opportunity to set the record straight” about his relationship with the disgraced financier. During his testimony, Wexner was emphatic in his assertions that he had no knowledge of Epstein’s criminal activities, never witnessed any inappropriate behavior, and never participated in any wrongdoing himself. He revealed that it wasn’t until 2006 that Epstein mentioned having legal troubles in Florida—issues that would eventually lead to his conviction for sexual abuse. The following year, in 2007, Epstein warned Wexner that the situation “could become messy” and suggested that Wexner’s wife should handle their personal finances going forward. This transfer of responsibility ultimately led to a shocking discovery: the Wexner family uncovered evidence that Epstein had systematically stolen vast sums of money from them. According to Wexner’s testimony, once he learned about both the abuse Epstein had committed and the theft from his family, he severed all contact with him: “Once I learned of his abusive conduct and theft from my family, I never spoke with Epstein again. Never.” Wexner also testified that he had never observed Epstein with young girls and expressed his profound sympathy for Epstein’s victims, stating, “The pain he inflicted upon them is unfathomable to me.”

The “Birthday Book” Mystery and Signature Analysis

Adding another layer of complexity to the story, a curious note signed by someone named “Leslie” appeared in what’s been called Epstein’s “birthday book,” which was released as part of the extensive Epstein files recently made public. The handwritten note, addressed to Epstein, contains the message that the author wanted to “get you what you want” alongside what appears to be a drawing of breasts, signed simply “your friend Leslie.” Because no surname was included, the author’s identity remains officially unconfirmed. However, Sky News’ data and forensics team conducted an analysis of the signature and handwriting, concluding that there are notable similarities with Les Wexner’s known handwriting samples. It’s crucial to note that merely appearing in the Epstein files or having one’s name associated with them is not, in itself, evidence of wrongdoing. Many individuals who had legitimate business or social connections with Epstein before his crimes became public knowledge have found themselves mentioned in these documents. Nevertheless, such revelations continue to raise questions and fuel public interest in understanding the full scope of Epstein’s network of relationships.

Wexner’s Public Acknowledgment of Regret

Wexner has been on record for several years now expressing his regret over his association with Epstein. In August 2019, shortly after Epstein’s death in custody, Wexner issued a statement saying, “I am embarrassed that, like so many others, I was deceived by Mr. Epstein. I know now that my trust in him was grossly misplaced and I deeply regret having ever crossed his path.” This public acknowledgment of having been deceived by Epstein mirrors the sentiments expressed by other prominent individuals who had dealings with the financier before his criminal activities became widely known. Wexner’s case is particularly significant because of the depth of their financial relationship—Epstein didn’t just have access to Wexner’s wealth, he actively managed it, giving him extraordinary power over the billionaire’s financial affairs. This level of trust and access makes the alleged theft all the more shocking and helps explain why Wexner has been so vocal about feeling deceived and manipulated by someone he once considered a trusted advisor.

UK Police Forces Launch Multiple Investigations

The release of the Epstein files has triggered a cascade of law enforcement activity in the United Kingdom, with multiple police forces now conducting assessments and investigations based on information contained in the documents. West Midlands Police announced on Wednesday that they are reviewing information related to private flights in and out of Birmingham Airport, as flight logs indicate that aircraft linked to Epstein passed through that facility between the early 1990s and 2018. This makes them the fourth UK police force to issue a statement connected to the Epstein files since Tuesday. Essex Police had previously announced they were working through logs of private jets that traveled through Stansted Airport, while Bedfordshire Police said they were reviewing connections to London Luton Airport. Surrey Police went a step further on Wednesday afternoon, confirming they are carrying out inquiries into specific allegations of human trafficking and sexual assault dating back to 1994. The National Crime Agency has confirmed that “a number” of UK police forces are now assessing various allegations that have emerged through the Epstein documents, indicating the scope of the potential investigation is substantial and multi-jurisdictional.

High-Profile UK Figures Under Scrutiny

Several prominent British figures have found themselves facing scrutiny or investigation as a result of information contained in the Epstein files. Last week, Thames Valley Police announced they were assessing claims that Prince Andrew (Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor) shared confidential documents with Epstein while serving as a trade envoy. Andrew has consistently and vigorously denied all accusations against him related to Epstein and his criminal activities. Earlier this month, the Metropolitan Police confirmed that Peter Mandelson, a senior Labour Party figure, would face a criminal investigation into allegations that he leaked market-sensitive information from Downing Street to Epstein while serving as business secretary. Lord Mandelson has publicly acknowledged his connection to Epstein, stating in a formal statement: “I was wrong to believe Epstein following his conviction and to continue my association with him afterwards. I apologize unequivocally for doing so to the women and girls who suffered.” These ongoing investigations demonstrate how the Epstein files continue to have significant repercussions for powerful individuals on both sides of the Atlantic, years after his death, as law enforcement authorities work to fully understand the extent of his network and whether any crimes beyond those he was convicted of were committed by him or his associates.