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New Albany Today
By the People, for the People
Billionaire Wexner Denies Knowing About Epstein's Crimes
Wexner says he was "duped" by Epstein, who he claims was a "world-class con man"
Published on Feb. 23, 2026
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Les Wexner, the billionaire behind retail brands like Victoria's Secret and Abercrombie & Fitch, is denying any knowledge of Jeffrey Epstein's crimes and claiming he was "duped" by the convicted sex offender. Wexner is set to sit for a deposition with the House Oversight Committee, which has subpoenaed him after new Justice Department documents raised questions about his relationship with Epstein.
Why it matters
Wexner's ties to Epstein have long been scrutinized, as Epstein was able to gain significant influence and access through his relationship with the billionaire. This deposition could shed more light on the extent of their relationship and whether Wexner was truly unaware of Epstein's criminal activities.
The details
In a statement submitted to the House Oversight Committee, Wexner described Epstein as a "con man" who duped him. Wexner said he was "naïve, foolish, and gullible" to trust Epstein, but denied any wrongdoing on his part. The committee has subpoenaed Wexner after new Justice Department documents raised further questions about his ties to Epstein, whose name appears over 1,000 times in Epstein's files.
- Wexner is set to sit for a deposition with the House Oversight Committee on Wednesday, February 19, 2026.
- In 2019, Wexner said he had severed ties with Epstein in 2007, but newly released emails show the two were in contact after that date.
The players
Les Wexner
The billionaire founder of the retail empire that includes brands like Victoria's Secret and Abercrombie & Fitch, who is denying any knowledge of Jeffrey Epstein's crimes.
Jeffrey Epstein
The convicted sex offender who had a close financial relationship with Wexner and is described by Wexner as a "world-class con man" who duped him.
House Oversight Committee
The congressional committee that has subpoenaed Wexner to testify about his ties to Epstein after new Justice Department documents raised further questions.
What they’re saying
“I was naïve, foolish, and gullible to put any trust in Jeffrey Epstein. He was a con man. And while I was conned, I have done nothing wrong and have nothing to hide.”
— Les Wexner, Billionaire and Founder of L Brands (Associated Press)
What’s next
The House Oversight Committee will interview Wexner on Wednesday, February 19, 2026 to further investigate his relationship with Jeffrey Epstein.
The takeaway
This case highlights the complex web of relationships and potential conflicts of interest between powerful businessmen and convicted criminals like Epstein. The deposition will be an important opportunity to uncover the full extent of Wexner's ties to Epstein and determine whether the billionaire was truly unaware of Epstein's crimes.
