US billionaire Les Wexner, who is alleged to have played a key role in helping Jeffrey Epstein build his wealth, has described himself as “naive, foolish and gullible” for trusting the late sex offender.
In a statement to US lawmakers at the start of a closed-door deposition on Wednesday, the former CEO of Victoria’s Secret lingerie brand accused Epstein of stealing “vast sums” of money from his family when working as his financial adviser.
Wexner, who was testifying before a House committee as part of its probe into the Epstein case, has denied any wrongdoing.
He was described as a potential co-conspirator of Epstein’s in a 2019 FBI document, but no charges were ever brought against him.Lawmakers accused the billionaire, who gave Epstein broad powers over his finances, of knowing about the other man’s crimes but failing to stop them.
Wexner had been called before the House of Representatives Oversight Committee to answer questions surrounding his relationship with Epstein in the wake of the release of thousands of documents related to the financier’s wrongdoing.
Members of the committee travelled to Wexner’s home state of Ohio for the testimony.
A spokesperson for the 88-year-old tycoon told the BBC: “Mr Wexner honestly answered every question put to him today by the Committee.
“Mr Wexner reiterated that he has no knowledge of, and did not participate in, Epstein’s illegal conduct. He stands by that fervently.”
Translate This Article
