A former Florida police chief has shared details of a 2006 phone call from Donald Trump, where the future president reportedly said that “everyone” was aware of Jeffrey Epstein’s troubling actions.
The call came after local authorities began investigating Epstein. Trump allegedly expressed relief that the investigation was underway, noting that Epstein had been barred from his Mar-a-Lago club and describing him as “disgusting.” He also mentioned that people in New York were familiar with Epstein’s reputation.
Trump reportedly referred to Ghislaine Maxwell as Epstein’s key associate, calling her “evil” and urging focus on her role. Maxwell was later convicted for recruiting underage girls for Epstein.
The chief recalled Trump saying he had encountered Epstein with teenagers and quickly distanced himself. Trump was among the first to reach out when news of the investigation broke.
The 2006 probe into Epstein involved allegations of sexual exploitation of minors. It eventually led to a federal plea deal in 2008 that shielded Epstein from harsher penalties.
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Trump has long maintained he ended his association with Epstein around 2004 after a dispute over staff poaching at Mar-a-Lago. He has denied any knowledge of Epstein’s crimes prior to cutting ties.
The two had socialized in the 1990s, appearing in photos together, but Trump insists he was unaware of any illegal activities.
Recent developments include Maxwell’s virtual testimony before a congressional committee, where she invoked her right to remain silent on multiple questions. Her legal team indicated she might speak if granted clemency.
Trump has stated he hasn’t considered pardoning Maxwell.