Goldman Sachs' Top Lawyer Resigns Over Epstein Ties

Kathy Ruemmler steps down after emails show close relationship with convicted sex offender

Published on Feb. 13, 2026

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Kathy Ruemmler, the chief legal officer and general counsel at Goldman Sachs, announced her resignation on Thursday after emails surfaced showing a close relationship between her and convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein. Ruemmler had previously described Epstein as an "older brother" and downplayed his sex crimes, despite receiving expensive gifts from him after his 2008 conviction.

Why it matters

Ruemmler's resignation highlights the ongoing fallout from the Epstein scandal and the scrutiny that Wall Street firms face over their associations with disgraced individuals. The revelations raise questions about Goldman's vetting processes and oversight of its top legal counsel.

The details

The emails showed that Ruemmler referred to Epstein as "Uncle Jeffrey" and said she "adored" him, even after his 2008 conviction for sex crimes. Ruemmler also received several expensive gifts from Epstein, including luxury handbags and a fur coat, which is frowned upon by Wall Street due to potential conflicts of interest.

  • Ruemmler announced her resignation on Thursday, February 13, 2026.
  • Epstein was first convicted of sex crimes in 2008 and was a registered sex offender at the time he gave gifts to Ruemmler.
  • Epstein was arrested a second time for sex crimes in 2019 and later died by suicide in a Manhattan jail.

The players

Kathy Ruemmler

The former chief legal officer and general counsel at Goldman Sachs, who announced her resignation after emails surfaced showing her close relationship with convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein.

Jeffrey Epstein

A convicted sex offender who had a close relationship with Kathy Ruemmler, according to the emails, and gave her expensive gifts after his 2008 conviction.

David Solomon

The CEO of Goldman Sachs, who had previously described Ruemmler as an "excellent lawyer" and said she had his full faith and backing.

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What they’re saying

“So lovely and thoughtful! Thank you to Uncle Jeffrey!!!”

— Kathy Ruemmler, Chief Legal Officer and General Counsel, Goldman Sachs (Emails)

“Ruemmler regrets ever knowing him.”

— Goldman Sachs spokesperson (Goldman Sachs statement)

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.