The Department of Justice's Office of the Inspector General announced Thursday it is launching an audit into the department's handling of records related to Jeffrey Epstein's sex trafficking case.

Deputy Inspector General William M. Blier, performing the duties of the inspector general, stated the review will evaluate the DOJ's processes for identifying, redacting, and releasing records as required by the Epstein Files Transparency Act. The audit will examine the identification, collection, and production of responsive material; guidance on redacting and withholding information; and handling of post-release concerns. A public report will follow upon completion.

The Epstein Files Transparency Act, H.R. 4405, was signed into law by President Trump on November 19, 2025. Sponsored by Rep. Ro Khanna, D-Calif., it mandates the DOJ to publicly release unclassified records, documents, and materials from Epstein's investigations and prosecutions, including those involving Ghislaine Maxwell, flight logs, and references to government officials. Releases must be searchable and downloadable, with redactions limited to victim information and active probes. The DOJ was to report to Congress within 15 days on withholdings and named individuals.

In compliance, the DOJ published nearly 3.5 million pages on January 30, 2026, including over 2,000 videos and 180,000 images from cases in Florida and New York involving Epstein and Maxwell, FBI probes, and the OIG's prior investigation into Epstein's 2019 death. More than 500 attorneys reviewed materials, prioritizing victim protections. Some pornographic images were redacted, treating depicted women as victims. Notable figures and politicians faced no special redactions. The effort included public tips to the FBI, some containing unfounded claims against Trump submitted before the 2020 election.

The OIG previously determined Epstein died by suicide in a Manhattan jail while awaiting trial.

The audit follows complaints over delays beyond a late 2025 deadline, heavy redaction,s and errors. Survivors reported exposed personal details, including names and photos, prompting withdrawals. Lawmakers, including Reps. Jamie Raskin and Sen. Adam Schiff urged the review amid concerns of mishandling and missing documents with uncorroborated accusations. Democrats accused the DOJ of protecting Trump, Epstein's former associate, while the department cited the vast volume and technical issues.

Records remain available at justice.gov/epstein, with ongoing reviews for errors.