Newly Released Files Highlight Intimate Correspondence
Newly released House Oversight Committee documents reveal a close personal and professional relationship between former Baylor President Ken Starr and convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein. The Starr-Epstein emails span several years and include friendly exchanges, discussions of current events, and references to high-profile sexual assault scandals involving both men. The correspondence sheds new light on Starr’s ongoing connection to Epstein well after their initial legal collaboration in the early 2000s.
A Cordial Relationship Despite Epstein’s Criminal Past
The emails portray a warm friendship. Starr frequently closed messages with words like “hugs” and “love,” and expressed interest in visiting Epstein in New York and Florida. Epstein, in turn, invited Starr to his Manhattan residence and shared news articles, including one linking Donald Trump to an alleged assault at an Epstein party. Their correspondence extended into the mid-2010s, long after Epstein’s controversial 2008 plea deal.
Starr’s Role in Epstein’s 2008 Plea Deal Scrutinized
Critics have long pointed to Starr’s involvement in Epstein’s 2008 plea deal as a troubling episode in his legal career. Starr, who served as a member of Epstein’s legal team, was described by Chron as “instrumental” in negotiating the agreement. That deal resulted in Epstein pleading guilty to lesser state charges, serving just 18 months in jail, and avoiding federal sex trafficking prosecution. Detractors argue that Starr’s legal support helped Epstein escape full accountability for running a sex abuse network targeting minors.
Supporters Cite Starr’s Legal Career and Public Service
Supporters highlight Starr’s extensive legal background, including his role as independent counsel in the Clinton-Lewinsky investigation and service as an appellate judge. They argue his association with Epstein was primarily legal and part of due process. However, the warm tone of the emails has raised fresh ethical concerns.
Scandals Collide: Baylor Controversy and Epstein Connection
The emails also show Starr confiding in Epstein about negative media coverage related to the Baylor football sexual assault scandal. In 2016, Starr resigned as Baylor president amid criticism over his handling of sexual misconduct cases involving athletes. These parallel scandals have renewed scrutiny of Starr’s legacy.
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Newly released files show relationship between Ken Starr, Jeffrey Epstein
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