In a statement to the House Oversight and Government Reform Committee on Wednesday, Les Wexner, the former CEO of Victoria's Secret and a once close associate of Jeffrey Epstein, vehemently denied any knowledge or involvement in Epstein's criminal activities. Wexner, who severed ties with Epstein nearly two decades ago, emphasized his disgust upon discovering Epstein's true nature.

“I completely and irrevocably cut ties with Epstein nearly twenty years ago when I learned that he was an abuser, a crook, and a liar,” Wexner stated during his deposition, which was held behind closed doors in New Albany, Ohio. The billionaire, known for founding L Brands, reiterated his lack of awareness concerning Epstein’s illicit actions, “And, let me be crystal clear: I never witnessed nor had any knowledge of Epstein’s criminal activity.”

His testimony comes amidst ongoing investigations by the Oversight panel into Epstein's connections and the Justice Department's handling of his case. Despite being named in DOJ materials as a potential secondary co-conspirator, Wexner has not been charged, with the memo noting "limited evidence regarding his involvement."

During the deposition, House Democrats portrayed Wexner as a significant financial enabler of Epstein’s criminal empire. Representative Robert Garcia of California highlighted the substantial financial transactions between Wexner and Epstein, claiming that Epstein's wealth was largely due to Wexner’s financial support. “There is no single person that was more involved in providing Jeffrey Epstein with the financial support to commit his crimes than Les Wexner,” Garcia stated to the press.

Wexner described his initial connection with Epstein as a business relationship that began with Epstein offering financial advice as a personal favor. This professional relationship evolved, with Epstein later managing Wexner’s personal finances and even being granted power of attorney. Wexner lamented this trust as misplaced, acknowledging that Epstein exploited his connections to enhance his credibility and expand his network under the guise of legitimacy.

As scrutiny intensified in the 2000s, it came to light that Epstein had misappropriated funds from Wexner, prompting a complete severance of their ties. According to Wexner, some of the stolen money was returned, though Epstein never admitted to any wrongdoing.

In his statement, Wexner also underscored his commitment to his family, stating his fidelity to his wife of over three decades.

The deposition was notably absent of Republican lawmakers, with Committee Chair James Comer missing due to prior commitments. The proceedings have illuminated the complex web of financial and personal connections surrounding Epstein, raising significant questions about oversight and accountability among high-profile individuals.