U.S. Justice Watchdog to Probe Epstein File Release Compliance

The U.S. Justice Department's Office of Inspector General announced on Thursday an investigation into the department's compliance with a law concerning the release of files on Jeffrey Epstein. This internal probe, while conducted independently, aims to scrutinize the efficacy of processes identifying, redacting, and releasing these investigative files.

The law in question, passed in November, obliges the Justice Department to disclose nearly all documentation related to sex trafficking inquiries involving the late financier Epstein, who had a network of high-profile connections, and his former associate, Ghislaine Maxwell.

This move comes as a response to increasing public and legal pressure to ensure transparency and accountability in investigations of individuals connected to such serious allegations.

(With inputs from agencies.)