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Santa Fe, NM – New Mexico lawmakers have launched a sweeping investigation into the activities at the Zorro Ranch, once owned by the late convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein, amid allegations of sex trafficking and abuse. The bipartisan effort, unanimously approved by the state House on Monday, aims to uncover the full extent of what occurred at the sprawling 7,600-acre property and identify those who may have been involved.
The investigation, spearheaded by a newly formed “Truth Commission,” will have the power to subpoena witnesses and access public records, seeking to fill gaps left by previous federal investigations. State Representative Andrea Romero (D-Santa Fe), a key sponsor of the legislation, emphasized the need for transparency and accountability, stating that New Mexicans “deserve to realize the truth about what went on at the Zorro Ranch and who knew about it.”
The Zorro Ranch, purchased by Epstein in 1993 from former New Mexico Governor Bruce King, has long been the subject of rumors and allegations. The property, located approximately 30 miles south of Santa Fe, features a large mansion and private runway, and has been mentioned repeatedly in documents released as part of legal proceedings related to Epstein’s crimes. Annie Farmer, an accuser of Epstein, testified in 2021 that she was abused at the ranch by his associate, Ghislaine Maxwell, when she was 16 years old, and has also accused Epstein of abuse there.
This investigation into Epstein’s New Mexico activities comes as scrutiny of his network continues to intensify. The Justice Department’s release of Epstein-related files has revealed connections between Epstein and several prominent figures, including former Democratic governors and an attorney general in New Mexico, adding further urgency to the need for a comprehensive review.
Uncovering the Truth: The Scope of the Investigation
The bipartisan committee will consist of four representatives from both major parties, appointed by House Speaker Javier Martínez (D-Albuquerque). The committee members are Representatives Romero, Marianna Anaya (D-Albuquerque), Andrea Reeb (R-Clovis), and William “Bill” Hall (R-Aztec). They are tasked with identifying ranch guests and state officials who may have had knowledge of or participated in alleged sexual abuse at the property. Romero vowed the committee would publicly name suspected perpetrators, stating, “There were clearly activities that took place here under the guise of Jeffrey Epstein… and other perpetrators.”
Funding and Timeline for the Truth Commission
The investigation is allocated a $2 million budget, funded by a 2023 settlement reached by Attorney General Raúl Torrez with several financial services companies for failing to identify abuses at the ranch. The commission is scheduled to operate through the end of the year, with the possibility of an extension if needed. An interim report is due to House leadership by July 31, with a final report expected by December 31, including recommendations for future action.
Cooperation and Potential Legislative Changes
The family of former Dallas-area Texas Senator Don Huffines (R), the current owners of the property – now renamed San Rafael – has indicated their willingness to cooperate with New Mexico officials should they seek to search the ranch. Huffines announced on X (formerly Twitter) that he intends to transform the property into a Christian retreat, “after the saint associated with physical and spiritual healing.”
Romero also noted that lawmakers are considering changes to state legislation regarding statutes of limitations to potentially aid survivors in pursuing justice, even if the original timeframe for prosecution has passed. The committee aims to gather information that could be used in future legal proceedings.
What’s Next for the Zorro Ranch Investigation
The first meeting of the Truth Commission is scheduled for Tuesday morning. Lawmakers are urging local residents and survivors to come forward with testimony. This investigation represents a significant step towards addressing unanswered questions surrounding Epstein’s activities in New Mexico and ensuring accountability for any wrongdoing that may have occurred at the Zorro Ranch. The outcome of this inquiry could have far-reaching implications, potentially impacting other individuals connected to Epstein and prompting further scrutiny of similar properties and networks.
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