U.S. lawmakers recently questioned Lesley Groff, Jeffrey Epstein’s longtime assistant, about her role in arranging travel for women or girls using Epstein’s American Express account. Groff, who worked for Epstein for nearly two decades, was involved in booking hundreds of travel itineraries, primarily for individuals from Eastern Europe. During her testimony to the House Oversight Committee, Groff stated she believed the travel was for “traveling assistants” and denied knowledge of any sexual activities related to the trips. The committee also inquired about “decoy flights” allegedly used to obtain visas, with emails suggesting Groff requested such arrangements. Groff’s attorney argued there was no evidence these flights were for visa purposes. This investigation highlights ongoing scrutiny of Epstein’s network and the use of financial services in facilitating his activities.
QUESTION: How might the use of financial services in illegal activities impact the trust and responsibilities of financial institutions?
Epstein’s assistant grilled by lawmakers over Amex travel booked for women or girls
