New Mexico Launches Probe Into Epstein's Zorro Ranch

State lawmakers approve comprehensive investigation into alleged sex trafficking and abuse at the 7,600-acre property.

Published on Feb. 17, 2026

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The New Mexico legislature has passed a bipartisan bill to launch a full investigation into Jeffrey Epstein's Zorro Ranch, where the late sex offender is accused of trafficking and sexually assaulting girls and women. The so-called 'truth commission' will seek testimony from survivors and identify ranch guests and state officials who may have known about or participated in the alleged abuse.

Why it matters

The investigation adds to the growing political pressure to uncover Epstein's crimes, which have become a major challenge for the current administration. The probe could also implicate additional politicians, scientists, investors and other high-profile individuals linked to Epstein's activities in the state.

The details

The $2.5 million investigation, which has subpoena power, aims to close gaps in New Mexico law that may have allowed Epstein to operate in the state. The committee will start work on Tuesday and deliver interim findings in July, with a final report due by the end of the year. Testimony could be used for future prosecutions. Victim advocates say Zorro Ranch has been overlooked in previous federal investigations that focused on Epstein's Caribbean island and New York townhouse.

  • The New Mexico legislature passed the bill on Monday, February 17, 2026.
  • The investigation committee will start work on Tuesday, February 18, 2026.
  • The committee will deliver interim findings in July 2026.
  • The committee will deliver a final report by the end of 2026.

The players

New Mexico Legislature

The state legislature that passed the bipartisan bill to launch the investigation into Epstein's Zorro Ranch.

Jeffrey Epstein

The late U.S. sex offender who is accused of trafficking and sexually assaulting girls and women at his Zorro Ranch property in New Mexico.

Andrea Romero

A Democratic state representative in New Mexico who co-sponsored the investigation initiative.

Sigrid McCawley

An attorney whose law firm has represented hundreds of Epstein survivors, including the late Virginia Giuffre who was allegedly abused at the Zorro Ranch.

Raul Torrez

The current New Mexico Attorney General who has assigned a special agent to probe allegations that may come through the truth commission.

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What they’re saying

“He was basically doing anything he wanted in this state without any accountability whatsoever.”

— Andrea Romero, New Mexico State Representative (NBC News)

“Many of the survivors had experiences in New Mexico, and as we've learned, you know, there were local politicians and other people that were aware of what was happening in New Mexico.”

— Sigrid McCawley, Attorney (NBC News)

“I deferred to the due diligence of the institutions involved, assuming that his presence signaled he had been appropriately vetted. I feel a deep sense of grief for the survivors of his crimes.”

— Joshua Ramo, Investment Consultant (NBC News)

What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow any additional politicians or high-profile individuals linked to Epstein to testify before the investigation committee.

The takeaway

This comprehensive investigation into Epstein's activities at the Zorro Ranch in New Mexico represents a significant step forward in uncovering the full scope of his alleged crimes and holding those complicit accountable. The probe could lead to new prosecutions and shine a light on how Epstein was able to operate with apparent impunity in the state for years.