Bank of America Settles Epstein Lawsuit

Bank was accused of ignoring 'numerous red flags'

Mar. 18, 2026 at 3:24am

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Bank of America has tentatively settled a lawsuit claiming it ignored suspicious financial transactions involving Jeffrey Epstein while he was sexually abusing hundreds of girls and women. The proposed settlement was revealed in filings in Manhattan federal court on Monday, the same day that billionaire financier Leon Black was originally scheduled to be deposed in the case.

Why it matters

This case highlights the ongoing legal fallout from Epstein's crimes and the scrutiny on financial institutions that may have enabled his abuse through lack of oversight or willful ignorance of suspicious activity. The settlement could set a precedent for other institutions facing similar lawsuits related to Epstein.

The details

The terms of the settlement were not disclosed. Bank of America declined to comment on the case through a spokesperson. Though not a defendant, billionaire financier Leon Black was recently described as a 'critical witness' in the case by Sigrid McCawley, a lawyer for Epstein victims.

  • The proposed settlement was revealed in filings in Manhattan federal court on Monday, March 18, 2026.
  • Leon Black was originally scheduled to be deposed in the case on the same day, March 18, 2026.

The players

Bank of America

A major American multinational investment bank and financial services company that was accused of ignoring suspicious financial transactions involving Jeffrey Epstein.

Jeffrey Epstein

A disgraced financier who was convicted of sex crimes and accused of sexually abusing hundreds of girls and women.

Leon Black

A billionaire financier who was described as a 'critical witness' in the case against Bank of America related to Epstein.

Sigrid McCawley

A lawyer representing victims of Jeffrey Epstein.

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What they’re saying

“This case highlights the ongoing legal fallout from Epstein's crimes and the scrutiny on financial institutions that may have enabled his abuse through lack of oversight or willful ignorance of suspicious activity.”

— Sigrid McCawley, Lawyer for Epstein victims

What’s next

The terms of the settlement between Bank of America and the plaintiffs have not been disclosed, so it remains to be seen how this case will impact other lawsuits against financial institutions related to Epstein's crimes.

The takeaway

This settlement underscores the ongoing legal reckoning over Epstein's abuse and the potential liability of financial institutions that may have turned a blind eye to suspicious activity. It serves as a warning to banks and other firms to exercise greater due diligence in monitoring high-risk clients and transactions.