Leslie H. Wexner’s Link to Jeffrey Epstein Revealed
In the intricate web of financial alliances and business endeavors, New Albany billionaire Leslie H. Wexner finds himself entwined with the infamous Jeffrey Epstein. This revelation comes to light as Wexner’s name surfaces in a list of Epstein associates released by a court order.
A Long-Standing Partnership
Wexner, the visionary behind L Brands, a retail empire boasting renowned brands like Victoria’s Secret and Bath & Body Works, shared a substantial history with Epstein. Their business ties trace back to the mid-1980s, evolving into a close financial advisory relationship.
The Unveiling of Names
The list in question, initially concealed in a 2015 civil lawsuit by Virginia Giuffre, accused Epstein and Ghislaine Maxwell of orchestrating sexual encounters with influential men. Judge Loretta Preska’s recent order to release these names sheds light on Wexner’s possible connections. It’s crucial to note that neither Wexner nor any other mentioned figures face criminal charges; their inclusion suggests associations as witnesses, victims, plaintiffs, or individuals with social and business links to Epstein and Maxwell.
Wexner in Depositions
Wexner’s name emerges in depositions where individuals were questioned about their interactions with him. Maxwell vehemently denies providing a woman with a provocative outfit for Wexner and refutes any communication about the lawsuit. Another witness clarifies not having met Wexner, Al Gore, or Kevin Spacey.
Business Ties and Financial Affairs
The Epstein-Wexner partnership extended to various ventures, including giving Epstein significant authority to act on Wexner’s behalf. Their collaboration even reached a Manhattan residence, setting a record price for a townhome at the time. However, by 2007, amid sexual misconduct allegations against Epstein, Wexner distanced him from managing the Wexner family’s finances.
The Shocking Revelation
In a startling turn of events, Wexner accused Epstein of embezzling tens of millions from the Wexner family. This revelation led to the dissolution of financial ties, with Abigail Wexner establishing a charity, YLK Charitable Fund, in December 2007. Epstein’s substantial $47 million donation became a subject of controversy, with Wexner asserting it was funds stolen from the family.
Wexner, addressing the betrayal, stated, “With his credibility and our trust in him destroyed, we immediately severed ties with him. We were able to recover some of the funds.” He also assured his employees that he was oblivious to the illegal activities Epstein faced charges for.
Epstein’s Philanthropic Contributions
Beyond financial entanglements, Epstein’s influence extended to philanthropy. He donated or pledged $336,000 to Ohio State University, funds later redirected to a state human trafficking initiative in 2020.
In unraveling the complex dynamics between Leslie H. Wexner and Jeffrey Epstein, it becomes evident that their association, once deeply intertwined, now stands severed due to the shocking revelations that altered the course of their professional and personal connections.