Ohio State Gynecology Head Received Payments from Epstein

Newly released DOJ files show Epstein made regular payments to the university's top gynecologist.

Published on Feb. 10, 2026

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Convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein paid Ohio State University's head of gynecology, Dr. Mark Landon, quarterly payments of thousands of dollars between 2001 and 2005, according to newly released Department of Justice files. Landon claimed the payments were for consulting work and that he had no knowledge of Epstein's criminal activities.

Why it matters

This case raises questions about the extent of Epstein's connections within academic and medical institutions, and whether there were any inappropriate relationships or knowledge of his sex trafficking crimes. It also highlights the ongoing scrutiny of Epstein's business dealings and the institutions and individuals who may have enabled his criminal behavior.

The details

The DOJ files show that Epstein paid Landon as much as $25,000 every few months during the early 2000s. Landon also received at least 10 packages from Epstein or his associates over that time period, with Epstein spending over $200 mailing items to Landon's home in Columbus. Landon claimed the payments were for consulting work and that he had no knowledge of Epstein's crimes, which he described as "reprehensible." Landon continues to be employed at Ohio State, and the university recently named a hospital visitor lounge after him.

  • Epstein made quarterly payments to Landon between 2001 and 2005.
  • On April 11, 2005, an Epstein associate messaged Epstein about approving Landon's $25,000 quarterly payment.
  • Epstein and his associates sent packages to Landon's home in Columbus between June 28, 2001 and April 12, 2005.

The players

Jeffrey Epstein

A convicted sex offender who paid quarterly payments to the head of gynecology at Ohio State University.

Mark Landon

A physician and professor at Ohio State University who was the chair of the obstetrics and gynecology department, and received thousands of dollars in payments from Epstein.

Les Wexner

A businessman who was Epstein's only public client, with Epstein helping Wexner manage the billions he made running retailers The Limited and Victoria's Secret. Wexner's name is on the Ohio State Wexner Medical Center where Landon worked.

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What they’re saying

“I did not provide any clinical care for Jeffrey Epstein or any of his victims. I was a paid consultant for the New York Strategy Group regarding potential biotech investments from 2001 to 2005. I had no knowledge of any criminal activities; I find them reprehensible, and I feel terrible for Epstein's victims.”

— Mark Landon, Physician and Professor at Ohio State University (WCMH)

“I am embarrassed that, like so many others, I was deceived by Mr. Epstein. I know now that my trust in him was grossly misplaced and I deeply regret having ever crossed his path.”

— Les Wexner (The Hill)

What’s next

The House has issued a subpoena for Les Wexner to testify before Congress in the Epstein investigation.

The takeaway

This case highlights the concerning connections between powerful individuals and institutions, and the need for thorough investigations into any potential enablement or knowledge of Epstein's criminal activities. It raises questions about oversight and accountability within academic and medical settings.