Former Epstein executive secretary tells Oversight panel he was ‘master manipulator’

Capitol, Groff’s attorney, Michael Bachner, said that Groff was not aware of Epstein’s illegal activities and was fully cooperating with authorities in their investigation. He also stated that Groff had no involvement in, or knowledge of, any of Epstein’s criminal acts.

During her testimony on Tuesday, Groff reiterated her previous statements, emphasizing that she was unaware of Epstein’s crimes and that she was merely carrying out the tasks assigned to her as his executive secretary. She maintained that she had no personal or romantic relationship with Epstein and that she was shocked to learn about the allegations against him.

Groff’s testimony shed light on the inner workings of Epstein’s operation, detailing her role in scheduling meetings, organizing travel arrangements, and booking massage appointments for Epstein. She clarified that the massages she arranged were for professional massage therapists and that she never met them in person. Groff also disclosed that Epstein or his associate, Bella Klein, would pay the therapists in cash, which she would occasionally send via couriers.

When Epstein was arrested in 2006 and again in 2019, Groff testified that he claimed to have been blackmailed, a statement she found troubling. She expressed her dismay at being listed as a potential co-conspirator in the 2007 non-prosecution agreement, describing it as a stain on her reputation that she continues to carry.

Throughout her tenure with Epstein, Groff maintained a strictly professional relationship with him, as instructed by Epstein and Maxwell. She was prohibited from socializing with their inner circle and was kept in the dark about their personal affairs. Groff acknowledged that Epstein had a vast network of contacts worldwide and that she did not question the extensive list of individuals receiving massages.

House Oversight Chairman James Comer commended Groff for her cooperation and expressed confidence in the value of her testimony for the committee’s investigation. He emphasized the committee’s commitment to uncovering the truth about Epstein’s criminal enterprise and holding accountable those involved.

As Groff left the hearing without speaking to reporters, her attorney reiterated her innocence and willingness to assist in the investigation. Groff’s testimony provided crucial insights into Epstein’s operations and shed light on the challenges faced by individuals who unwittingly become entangled in criminal enterprises. Marina Lacerda, a survivor of Jeffrey Epstein’s abuse, has come forward to specifically call out Lesley Groff, alleging that Groff played a significant role in facilitating her interactions with Epstein. Lacerda revealed that Groff had incessantly called her to go to Epstein’s residence for a massage, to the extent that Lacerda dropped out of high school before completing the ninth grade.

In an interview with ABC News, Lacerda emphasized Groff’s pivotal role as the intermediary between Epstein and his victims. She stated, “Anything that had to do with Jeffrey Epstein had to go through Lesley Groff.”

Groff’s lawyer, Michael Bachner, refrained from commenting prior to her appearance on Capitol Hill. However, he previously stated that Groff was unaware of any illicit activities orchestrated by Epstein and never intentionally arranged travel for individuals under the age of 18.

Following Epstein’s arrest in 2019, federal prosecutors identified Groff as a potential co-conspirator and issued her a subpoena. Bachner informed the authorities that Groff would invoke her Fifth Amendment right against self-incrimination if summoned to testify before a grand jury.

During her interview with FBI investigators, Groff disclosed that scheduling massages for Epstein constituted only a small fraction of her responsibilities. She was captivated by Epstein’s affluent lifestyle and influential connections in various industries, which included politics and television.

Groff, who initially received a salary of $60,000 annually from Epstein, saw her earnings double to $120,000 after four years of employment. Epstein reportedly went to great lengths to retain Groff’s services, purchasing her a new Mercedes and providing financial support for a nanny.

Banking records from the Department of Justice’s Epstein files revealed several substantial payments made to Groff by Epstein’s companies between 2016 and 2018. Despite facing legal scrutiny, Groff remained loyal to Epstein after his initial arrest in 2006, believing his claims of being blackmailed.

However, Groff resigned when Epstein was arrested again in 2019, expressing feelings of betrayal and disgust. One victim, who was a minor at the time of the abuse, indicated to the FBI that Groff was aware of the sexual nature of the massage appointments.

Federal prosecutors ultimately decided not to press charges against Groff, concluding a thorough investigation into Epstein’s activities. Lacerda expressed hope that congressional investigators would hold Groff accountable by seeking transparency and honesty regarding her involvement with Epstein.

In light of these developments, it is imperative for Groff to provide clarity and accountability in order to address the injustices perpetuated by Epstein and his accomplices. Title: The Impact of Technology on Modern Society

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