Additional Coverage:
- Dan Bongino faces scrutiny for FBI Jeffrey Epstein redactions as transparency concerns mount (irishstar.com)
FBI Deputy Director Dan Bongino Under Fire for Epstein Redactions Amid Transparency Concerns
FBI Deputy Director Dan Bongino is facing intense scrutiny over significant redactions within documents related to the ongoing Jeffrey Epstein investigation. The controversy intensified following the recent release of photos from the convicted sex offender’s estate, prompting critics to question Bongino’s handling of the situation.
Concerns have been raised regarding delays in the disclosure of crucial information and Bongino’s early involvement in the bureau’s management of the Epstein case, a scandal that has captivated the nation since Epstein’s death in 2019.
Reports now suggest that Bongino was directly informed of a major redaction, fueling worries about transparency. It has been indicated that over 1,000 FBI agents were involved in redacting Epstein records for what was dubbed the “Epstein Transparency Project.”
Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) emails reveal Bongino’s involvement in the operation shortly after his appointment as Deputy Director by President Donald Trump in February. Bongino, however, has downplayed his role, asserting that the redaction efforts began prior to his appointment. The records further show that more than 4,737 overtime hours were dedicated to preparing files for the Department of Justice.
Investigative journalist Jason Leopold brought this information to light, stating, “Here’s a rare look behind the scenes at the FBI’s review of the Epstein files in March, based on emails I obtained via FOIA. Dan Bongino was copied on an email related to ‘guidance on the types of redactions to apply.'”
In response to the criticism, Bongino stated, “Folks, I entered on duty on March 17th. The emails in the chain you see forwarded to me, at my request, were sent before I began in my position.”
He added, “I wanted to review what has been done before I entered on duty. It was a priority and, as you can see, they responded immediately.
I’m glad that these emails are available for your review.”
The FBI has defended the extensive redactions, maintaining they were necessary to adhere to federal law, including provisions for the protection of victims, witnesses, and uncharged third parties.
Nevertheless, the protracted delay in releasing these records has eroded public trust in both the FBI and the Department of Justice. This perceived lack of transparency has evolved into a bipartisan issue, casting a shadow over President Trump’s second term.
President Trump, who appears in the recently released trove of 95,000 photos, addressed questions about the images, remarking, “He has photos with everybody. Hundreds and hundreds of people have photos with him, that’s no big deal, I know nothing about it.”