Justice Department Restores Lutnick’s Photo on Epstein’s Island Files
The Justice Department has recently restored a photo featuring Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick alongside Jeffrey Epstein on Epstein’s island. Initially published last month as part of the Epstein files, the image was briefly removed before its reinstatement on Thursday evening.
Details of the Epstein Files Photo
This photo, authenticated by CBS News, captures Lutnick, Epstein, and three other individuals on a cliff overlooking the ocean. The image carried the reference number EFTA01230639 on the DOJ’s website.
Archival Efforts
The Internet Archive’s Wayback Machine, a nonprofit organization dedicated to preserving digital content, had saved a copy of the photo on January 31. Additionally, Jmail, a web service for archiving Epstein-related content, also documented the image.
Despite its removal, the photo was quickly restored, with the DOJ’s link initially leading to a “Page not found” notice.
Context of the Photo’s Release
Related emails uncovered in the Epstein files revealed that in December 2012, Lutnick and his family visited Epstein’s estate on Little St. James Island. Lutnick was invited for a lunch gathering on December 24, 2012. Epstein’s assistant later communicated a friendly note, stating, “it was nice seeing you.”
Lutnick’s Congressional Testimony
During a recent congressional hearing, Lutnick confirmed the family’s presence on the island. He stated, “We had lunch on the island, that is true, for an hour. Then we left with all of my children, with my nannies and my wife all together.” Lutnick emphasized the nature of the visit, affirming, “To suggest there was anything untoward about that in 2012, I don’t recall why we did it. But we did.”
Controversy and Business Ties
While Lutnick has not been accused of any wrongdoing concerning Epstein, he has encountered scrutiny over their association, especially given their proximity as neighbors in New York City. Lutnick previously stated he severed contact with Epstein in 2005, yet documents from the Epstein files indicate they were involved in business dealings as recently as 2014 through their advertising firm, Adfin.
Records reveal correspondence between the two as late as 2018. Epstein queried Lutnick about Adfin’s prospects and, in another exchange, Lutnick voiced concerns regarding a proposed expansion at the Frick Collection art museum, suggesting it could obstruct Epstein’s views.
Aftermath of Epstein’s Demise
Jeffrey Epstein, the convicted sex offender, died in prison in 2019 following his arrest on federal sex trafficking charges. His death was ruled a suicide, marking a controversial end to a case that involved numerous high-profile individuals.
As new details emerge regarding Epstein’s connections, further scrutiny on Lutnick’s ties to Epstein is expected. El-Balad will continue to monitor and provide updates on this developing story.
