Trump Allegedly Knew of Epstein's Crimes, Offered Info to Police

Revelations about Trump's 2006 call with police chief raise new questions about his ties to Epstein

Published on Feb. 11, 2026

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Recent revelations from a 2019 FBI interview indicate that former President Donald Trump was aware of Jeffrey Epstein's crimes involving underage girls as early as 2006. Trump reportedly told a Palm Beach police chief at the time that 'everyone has known he's been doing this', referring to Epstein's abuses. Trump also identified Ghislaine Maxwell as Epstein's key accomplice and urged the police to focus their investigation on her. These statements contradict Trump's previous claims of having no knowledge of Epstein's activities.

Why it matters

The resurfacing of these allegations about Trump's prior knowledge of Epstein's crimes has reignited scrutiny of their relationship and raises questions about potential cover-ups. It also comes as Ghislaine Maxwell, Epstein's former associate, has offered to provide information in exchange for a presidential pardon, further complicating the situation.

The details

According to the 2019 FBI interview with former Palm Beach Police Chief Michael Reiter, Trump not only acknowledged awareness of Epstein's crimes but also identified Ghislaine Maxwell as his key accomplice, describing her as 'evil' and urging Reiter to focus the investigation on her. Trump also reportedly recounted an instance where he removed himself from a situation involving teenagers and Epstein, and stated he had banned Epstein from his Mar-a-Lago club. These statements directly contradict Trump's 2019 assertions to reporters that he had 'no idea' about Epstein's alleged abuses.

  • In 2006, Trump reportedly had a phone call with Palm Beach Police Chief Michael Reiter about Epstein's crimes.
  • In 2019, the FBI interviewed Reiter, who then revealed details about his 2006 conversation with Trump.

The players

Donald Trump

The former President of the United States who reportedly had prior knowledge of Jeffrey Epstein's crimes involving underage girls.

Michael Reiter

The former Palm Beach Police Chief who had a phone conversation with Trump in 2006 about Epstein's activities.

Ghislaine Maxwell

Epstein's former associate who is currently serving a 20-year prison sentence for her role in his crimes and has offered to provide information in exchange for a presidential pardon.

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What they’re saying

“We must not let individuals continue to damage private property in San Francisco.”

— Robert Jenkins, San Francisco resident (San Francisco Chronicle)

“Fifty years is such an accomplishment in San Francisco, especially with the way the city has changed over the years.”

— Gordon Edgar, grocery employee (Instagram)

What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow Walker Reed Quinn out on bail.

The takeaway

This case highlights growing concerns in the community about repeat offenders released on bail, raising questions about bail reform, public safety on SF streets, and if any special laws to govern autonomous vehicles in residential and commercial areas.