New Mexico Lawmakers Launch Probe Into Epstein's Secluded Ranch

Bipartisan panel to investigate allegations of sexual abuse and sex trafficking at the former Zorro Ranch

Published on Feb. 20, 2026

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State legislators in New Mexico have launched a bipartisan investigation into past activities at the secluded Zorro Ranch, once owned by the late financier and sex offender Jeffrey Epstein. The four-member panel of state House representatives will look into allegations that the ranch may have facilitated sexual abuse and sex trafficking, as well as why Epstein was not registered as a sex offender in the state after a 2008 conviction.

Why it matters

The investigation aims to uncover any potential corruption or cover-ups by local authorities regarding Epstein's activities at the ranch, which has long been the subject of rumors and allegations of abuse. The probe could shed light on how Epstein was able to operate his alleged sex ring with apparent impunity in the state.

The details

The bipartisan, four-member truth commission has subpoena power and a budget of over $2 million to investigate the ranch's past. They are urging any survivors or witnesses of abuse to come forward confidentially. The property was sold by Epstein's estate in 2023 to the family of a Republican candidate in Texas, who says they will operate a Christian retreat there and cooperate fully with law enforcement.

  • The investigation was launched on Tuesday, February 17, 2026.
  • Epstein purchased the Zorro Ranch in 1993 from former Democratic Gov. Bruce King.
  • Epstein's estate sold the property in 2023, with the new owners pledging cooperation.

The players

Marianna Anaya

Democratic state Rep. of Albuquerque and member of the truth commission.

Andrea Romero

Chairwoman of the truth commission and state Rep. of Santa Fe.

William Hall

Retired FBI agent and Republican state Rep. of Aztec, serving on the commission.

Andrea Reeb

Former district attorney and state Rep. of Clovis, serving on the commission.

Don Huffines

Republican candidate in Texas who purchased the former Zorro Ranch in 2023, renaming it San Rafael Ranch.

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What they’re saying

“That perpetrator could not act alone. They could not run a sex ring alone, they could not commit these types of financial crimes alone. So we know as a commission that enablers must also be held accountable, including the state itself, if needed.”

— Marianna Anaya, Democratic state Rep. of Albuquerque

“We've heard years of allegations and rumors about Epstein's activities here. But unfortunately, federal investigations have failed to put together an official record. This truth commission will finally fill in the gaps of what we need to know.”

— Andrea Romero, Chairwoman of the truth commission and state Rep. of Santa Fe

What’s next

The truth commission has subpoena power and plans to interview potential victims and witnesses to uncover the full extent of Epstein's activities at the ranch and any potential cover-ups by local authorities.

The takeaway

This investigation aims to shed light on the disturbing allegations surrounding Epstein's operations in New Mexico and hold any enablers or corrupt officials accountable, providing long-awaited answers for survivors and the public.