New Mexico has filed a lawsuit against the U.S. Department of Justice, claiming that officials, including attorney general nominee Todd Blanche, are obstructing the state's investigation into Jeffrey Epstein. The lawsuit, initiated by New Mexico Attorney General Raúl Torrez, cites a 2021 ruling from the U.S. Court of Appeals for the 11th Circuit, which described the Epstein case as a 'national disgrace.' The suit alleges that Blanche and other DOJ officials are withholding critical unredacted documents necessary for the investigation into Epstein's activities at 'Zorro Ranch' near Santa Fe.
Torrez's lawsuit asserts that the DOJ's actions are harming victims and impeding public interest. It also references past federal resistance to New Mexico's investigation during Donald Trump's presidency. Representative James Comer has expressed concerns regarding the federal government's attempts to halt the investigation.
In a letter to Blanche, Torrez indicated that the withholding of documents is denying justice to victims. The DOJ has responded, stating that it is legally withholding documents to protect victims' privacy. Torrez has criticized the DOJ's lack of cooperation, emphasizing the need for accountability for Epstein's associates.