‘I drank the Kool Aid’: House Oversight releases deposition videos of 2 key Epstein associates

The recent deposition videos released by the House Oversight Committee shed light on the work of Jeffrey Epstein’s longtime attorney, Darren Indyke, and accountant, Richard Kahn. Despite their close ties to Epstein, both men claimed they were never questioned by federal authorities about their involvement with the disgraced financier.

During the hours-long depositions, Indyke and Kahn provided insights into Epstein’s finances, denying any knowledge of his criminal activities. They defended Epstein’s need for large cash withdrawals, citing his limited access to credit after his 2008 guilty plea. Indyke mentioned that he regularly withdrew substantial amounts of cash for Epstein, totaling over $700,000, but claimed he believed the funds were used for legitimate purposes.

Kahn revealed that Epstein’s annual expenses ranged from $25 million to $30 million, covering various costs such as homes, employees, planes, cars, gifts, and personal expenditures. Despite their extensive work with Epstein, both men maintained they were unaware of the full extent of his crimes.

Lawmakers questioned why Indyke and Kahn continued to work for Epstein after his guilty plea in 2008. Indyke expressed belief in Epstein’s remorse and claimed he was unaware of ongoing criminal activities. Kahn also defended his decision to stay, citing a busy schedule and the belief that Epstein’s arrest was a “mistake.”

The depositions also delved into allegations of arranging “sham marriages” to keep Epstein’s victims in the U.S. Kahn regretted writing a letter of recommendation for one of these marriages, unaware that it was forced. Indyke acknowledged his involvement in the marriages but denied any fraudulent intent.

Indyke faced scrutiny over allegations that he discouraged a victim from speaking to law enforcement. He denied advising against cooperation but admitted to suggesting legal counsel for fearful individuals. Kahn was questioned about his actions following a raid on Epstein’s home, where he retrieved items from a safe and handed them over to the FBI for safekeeping.

Overall, the depositions provided a deeper understanding of Indyke and Kahn’s roles in Epstein’s affairs, raising questions about their knowledge of his crimes and their decision to continue working for him despite mounting allegations. The revelations highlight the complexities of their relationship with Epstein and the challenges they faced in navigating his legal and financial matters.