Jeffrey Epstein explored the possibility of seeking leniency from federal prosecutors after his 2019 arrest by offering information about other powerful figures, including then-President Donald Trump, according to a new report from The New York Times.
The discussions involved a potential “proffer” session, a common step in criminal cases in which a defendant provides information to prosecutors in hopes of securing a more favorable sentence. It is unclear how far the talks advanced or how seriously prosecutors viewed the possibility.
According to the Times, Epstein appeared especially interested in whether he had any meaningful information involving Trump. But notes reviewed by the newspaper suggest that whatever Epstein believed he had was not substantive.
Among Epstein’s handwritten notes were the phrases “Trump is a total con artist — smoke & mirrors” and “Never had money.” The entries appeared to reflect personal criticism rather than concrete evidence of wrongdoing.
Epstein also reportedly considered whether he had leverage over other prominent associates, including Microsoft co-founder Bill Gates. The Times report said the material reviewed did not indicate that Epstein possessed damaging information sufficient to form the basis of a significant cooperation agreement.
Epstein and Trump had socialized in the 1980s and 1990s before their relationship deteriorated in the early 2000s. Trump has said the break occurred after he learned Epstein was soliciting young women at Mar-a-Lago. He has repeatedly denied knowing about Epstein’s criminal conduct or participating in it.
The Times report, published Tuesday, draws on prison records, interviews with inmates and staff, and other documents to examine Epstein’s final weeks in federal custody. It also reinforces the official finding that Epstein died by suicide in his Manhattan jail cell, rather than being murdered.
The evidence cited, explained Forbes included Epstein’s earlier questions to a cellmate about making a noose, sounds of fabric tearing heard by a nearby inmate on the night he died, and notes resembling a suicide message. In one note, Epstein wrote: “ONLY PAIN TO ME & Others in the future. NOT very much fun! Why should people I Lov suffer for my problem. So … Watcha want me to-do? …. Bust out cryin!! Best for all.”
Separate emails released in recent years show that Epstein continued to focus on Trump long after their relationship ended. He presented himself to various contacts, including figures connected to Russia and Gates, as someone with insight into Trump’s thinking, while also criticizing him sharply.
The renewed attention on Epstein’s case comes amid ongoing public frustration over the pace of document releases related to the financier and his associates. Trump has dismissed the controversy surrounding the files as a “hoax” and has denied allegations connected to Epstein, including claims involving a birthday note or specific flights on Epstein’s plane.
