Les Wexner, the face of the Victoria's Secret empire, testified before a U.S. House oversight committee. The 88-year-old businessman claims he was a victim of manipulation by Jeffrey Epstein, whom he called a "world-class fraudster." While the billionaire distances himself from the financier's criminal activities, American Democrats expressed deep skepticism towards his words, pointing to the long-standing, close relationship between the two men and massive monetary transfers.

Wexner as a Victim

The billionaire testified that he was deceived by Jeffrey Epstein, whom he called a manipulator and accused of stealing family funds.

Congressmen's Skepticism

Democrats, including Robert Garcia, question the credibility of the 88-year-old businessman, pointing out his numerous memory gaps during the hearing.

Visit to the Island

Wexner admitted he visited Epstein's private island but claims it was a one-time, few-hour visit with family.

88-year-old Leslie Wexner, the longtime head of the L Brands conglomerate, appeared before a House oversight committee to answer questions about his relationship with Jeffrey Epstein. The hearing was held in closed session at the billionaire's estate in New Albany, Ohio. Wexner, who for decades entrusted Epstein with managing his finances, stated he was naive and was perfidiously exploited. According to his account, Epstein embezzled enormous sums belonging to his family. The businessman categorically denied having any knowledge of the financier's pedophile network, emphasizing that he cut all ties with him nearly 20 years ago as soon as he learned of his improper behavior. The Wexner-Epstein relationship dates back to the 1980s, when the then little-known financial advisor gained almost unlimited power of attorney over the billionaire's wealth, which became the foundation of Epstein's later fortune and influence.Despite firm denials, committee members from the Democratic Party did not hide their disappointment with the course of the hearing. Congressman Robert Garcia stated plainly that he does not believe assurances that their acquaintance was purely business. Politicians pointed to numerous gaps in the billionaire's memory and the fact that Epstein held powers of attorney allowing him to purchase real estate and take out loans in Wexner's name. The investigation also revealed that Wexner visited Epstein's private Caribbean island, although he maintains it was a short family visit. „I was naive, stupid, and gullible to place any trust in Jeffrey Epstein. He was a fraudster, and while I was deceived, I did nothing wrong and have nothing to hide.” — Les Wexner1 billion USD — the amount Epstein allegedly obtained thanks to his relationship with WexnerThese testimonies follow the recent disclosure by the Department of Justice of thousands of pages of documents in which Wexner's name appeared in the context of potential co-conspirators. Although no criminal charges have been brought against the billionaire, the case casts a shadow on his legacy as one of the most important entrepreneurs in Ohio's history. The hearing is part of a broader investigation into law enforcement failures in monitoring Epstein's activities before his death in 2019. The Wexner-Epstein Relationship According to Parties: : → ; : →

Mentioned People

  • Leslie Wexner — American billionaire, founder of L Brands, former owner of Victoria's Secret.
  • Jeffrey Epstein — Deceased financier and sex offender, closely linked with financial elites.
  • Robert Garcia — Democratic Party congressman, member of the House Oversight Committee.