Epstein Files Reveal Prosecutors Investigated Allegations Against Billionaire Leon Black

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The newly released Epstein files show that prosecutors were investigating sexual assault allegations against billionaire Leon Black as far back as 2019, including claims from at least four women that he assaulted them in Epstein's Manhattan mansion. However, neither the Manhattan District Attorney's office nor the U.S. Attorney's Office for the Southern District of New York ultimately brought charges against Black.

Why it matters

The revelations in the Epstein files shed light on the extent to which prosecutors were examining the powerful financier's connections and potential wrongdoing by his associates, even as Epstein himself faced sex trafficking charges. The investigation into allegations against Black highlights the challenges in pursuing high-profile, wealthy individuals accused of sexual misconduct.

The details

The Epstein files include emails, internal memos, and records of calls with lawyers for Black's accusers going back to 2019. Two women alleged that Black raped them in Epstein's townhouse in 2002, claims that mirror those in civil lawsuits filed against Black after Epstein's death. Another woman told investigators that Epstein directed her to massage Black in his townhouse, and she "ran out of the room" when Black "began initiating sexual contact." A fourth woman, represented by attorney Jeanne Christensen, alleged that Epstein introduced her to Black at his townhouse in 2002 under the pretense of finding her work, and that Black then sexually assaulted her. Black has denied all wrongdoing.

• In 2019, prosecutors began investigating allegations against Leon Black.
• In March 2021, Black stepped down from his role as CEO and chairman of Apollo.
• In 2022, a civil lawsuit was filed against Black by Cheri Pierson, alleging he sexually assaulted her in Epstein's massage room.
• In July 2023, a new accuser filed a lawsuit against Black using a "Jane Doe" pseudonym, alleging she was sexually abused by Epstein in 2002 when she was 16 and trafficked to multiple men, including Black.
• In June 2024, the FBI referred to the investigation into allegations against Black in the past tense, indicating it was no longer active.

What they’re saying

What’s next

It is unclear if any criminal investigation into the allegations against Leon Black remains active, as a 2024 FBI timeline referred to the Manhattan District Attorney's office's inquiry into the matter in the past tense.