Billionaire Leslie Wexner Testifies He Was 'Duped' by Epstein

The former Victoria's Secret boss said he didn't witness or participate in Epstein's crimes.

Published on Feb. 21, 2026

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Leslie Wexner, the former Victoria's Secret boss, testified before the House Oversight Committee that he was 'duped' by Jeffrey Epstein and had no knowledge of his crimes. Wexner was subpoenaed to testify about his relationship with the sex offender.

Why it matters

Wexner's testimony provides insight into the relationship between the billionaire and Epstein, who was accused of sex trafficking and other crimes. The House Oversight Committee is investigating the government's handling of the Epstein case.

The details

Wexner, the 88-year-old retail billionaire, testified in a closed-door deposition at his residence in New Albany, Ohio. He told lawmakers that he was unaware of Epstein's crimes and had been 'duped' by the sex offender.

  • The Wednesday morning deposition took place on February 18, 2026.

The players

Leslie Wexner

The former CEO of L Brands, the parent company of Victoria's Secret.

Jeffrey Epstein

The sex offender who was accused of sex trafficking and other crimes.

House Oversight Committee

The congressional committee investigating the government's handling of the Epstein case.

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What they’re saying

“I was duped by Epstein and had no knowledge of his crimes.”

— Leslie Wexner, Former Victoria's Secret Boss

What’s next

The House Oversight Committee is expected to release a report on its investigation into the government's handling of the Epstein case in the coming months.

The takeaway

Wexner's testimony provides a rare glimpse into the relationship between the billionaire and the sex offender, raising questions about how much Wexner knew about Epstein's crimes and the extent of his involvement with the disgraced financier.