Retail Magnate Wexner Faces Tense Deposition Over Epstein Ties

Attorney threatens to 'kill' Wexner over lengthy responses about his relationship with convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein.

Published on Feb. 28, 2026

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A revealing moment from the recent deposition of retail magnate Les Wexner has surfaced, showcasing his attorney's exasperation with the billionaire's lengthy responses about his decades-long relationship with convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein. The incident, captured on video and released by the House Oversight Committee, underscores the complexities surrounding the case.

Why it matters

The release of Wexner's deposition and the accompanying scrutiny reflect a continuing effort to unravel the full extent of Epstein's network and the involvement of powerful individuals. The case has prompted increased calls for transparency and accountability regarding the handling of sex trafficking investigations and the protection of victims.

The details

During the five-hour deposition, Wexner's attorney, Michael Levy, was overheard warning his client to keep his answers concise, threatening 'I will f***ing kill you if you answer another question with more than five words, OK?' Wexner reportedly laughed after receiving the advice. Throughout the deposition, Wexner repeatedly characterized Epstein as a 'world Olympic con artist' who 'stolen vast sums' of his fortune, insisting he was 'never a participant nor co-conspirator' in Epstein's illegal activities.

  • The deposition took place on February 18, 2026.
  • The House Oversight Committee released the video of the deposition on February 19, 2026.

The players

Les Wexner

A retail magnate who had a decades-long relationship with convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein.

Michael Levy

Wexner's attorney who was overheard threatening to 'kill' his client during the deposition for providing lengthy responses.

Jeffrey Epstein

A convicted sex offender who had a close relationship with Wexner for many years.

Ro Khanna

A U.S. Representative who suggested Wexner was one of six men potentially incriminated by the release of Epstein-related documents.

Thomas Massie

A U.S. Representative who also suggested Wexner was one of six men potentially incriminated by the release of Epstein-related documents.

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What they’re saying

“I will f***ing kill you if you answer another question with more than five words, OK?”

— Michael Levy, Wexner's attorney (House Oversight Committee)

“Epstein was a 'world Olympic con artist' who 'stolen vast sums' of my fortune.”

— Les Wexner (House Oversight Committee)

What’s next

The House Oversight Committee is expected to continue its investigation into Epstein's network and the involvement of other high-profile individuals.

The takeaway

This case highlights the ongoing efforts to uncover the full extent of Epstein's criminal activities and the connections between powerful figures and his sex trafficking operation, raising questions about transparency and accountability in the handling of such high-profile investigations.