‘I did not know’: Former Epstein secretary Lesley Groff denies any awareness of boss’ sex crimes
'I did not know': Former Epstein secretary Lesley Groff denies any awareness of boss' sex crimes
I did not know - Lesley Groff, who served as the executive secretary for the late sex offender Jeffrey Epstein for over 18 years, testified before the House Oversight Committee on June 9, 2026, in a closed-door session. During her eight-hour appearance, Groff maintained that she was unaware of Epstein's alleged sexual misconduct, according to a transcript released Tuesday. She emphasized her routine role in scheduling massages for her employer but insisted she never arranged appointments for minors, claiming her responsibility was limited to administrative tasks. This testimony came as part of the committee’s broader investigation into how federal authorities handled cases involving Epstein and his associates, with a focus on potential gaps in oversight.
A Testimony of Denial and Routine
In her opening remarks, Groff described her early years at Epstein’s New York office, highlighting her astonishment at the caliber of individuals in his inner circle. "I was immediately struck by the extraordinary people in his network," she said, including past presidents, celebrities, and prominent scientists. She framed her position as an honor, stating that she felt fortunate to have secured such a high-profile job. "It was a privilege to be part of the lifestyles of the rich and famous," she added, reflecting on the initial excitement of her role.
"I never met these women, so I didn't know if they were young or how old they were," Groff said, addressing lawmakers. "I thought it was just something he did, like going to the gym."
During the interview, committee members probed her understanding of Epstein’s activities. Rep. Raja Krishnamoorthi, D-Ill., questioned whether Groff could have overlooked the age of the women he met with for massages. "You want us to believe that after 18 years working under Mr. Epstein, you never suspected any of the individuals you connected with were underage?" he asked. Groff responded affirmatively, stating, "That is correct." She further defended her perspective by noting that she did not evaluate voices or appearances, insisting that none of the women "sounded like they were underage" during her time with Epstein.
The Business of Epstein and Maxwell
Groff claimed Epstein and his then-partner Ghislaine Maxwell established clear boundaries for her interactions. "They told me their business was none of my business," she said. This guidance, she explained, shaped her daily responsibilities, which she described as largely focused on coordinating schedules and managing administrative duties. "Epstein’s directive for daily massages was a very small part of my role," she stated, suggesting her awareness of the practice was limited to its regularity rather than its purpose.
When pressed about her potential knowledge of Epstein’s predilections, Groff reiterated her lack of direct involvement. "I was not evaluating voices," she said, adding that the women’s ages were not a concern for her. She also mentioned that Epstein often discussed his personal life, including his claim that he was blackmailed by a girl who misrepresented her age. "He told me it was a shakedown for money," she said, recalling the mid-2000s when Epstein first faced scrutiny in Florida. "At the time, I felt sorry for him. I thought, 'Wow, this must be really difficult to be a wealthy person and not know who you can trust because everyone wants your money.'"
A Timeline of Events and Legal Context
Groff’s testimony unfolded against a backdrop of ongoing federal investigations into Epstein’s crimes. She appeared voluntarily for the interview, which was not recorded or conducted under oath. This contrasts with her previous interactions with the FBI in 2001, when she was first questioned about her role in Epstein’s operations. According to her attorneys, prosecutors later informed her that she would not face charges in the case, a decision she acknowledged as a relief. "I let them in my house and sat with them on my sofa," she said, describing the 2007 FBI visit that marked her initial encounter with the investigation.
Her account of the 2001 interview included details about how Epstein and Maxwell managed her access to their networks. "They made it clear I was never to associate with their friends," she stated, suggesting that her role was confined to their professional needs. This control over her interactions, she argued, helped her remain oblivious to the sexualized nature of the massages. "I was following their instructions," she said, emphasizing her adherence to the guidelines set by Epstein and Maxwell.
Public Perception and Committee Scrutiny
Despite her claims, Groff’s testimony drew skepticism from some committee members. One attorney asked her if a 14-year-old sounds the same as someone in their 20s, 30s, or 40s. Groff admitted she couldn’t be certain, but she maintained that the women she met with Epstein appeared mature. "It’s possible," she said, "but I don’t know. I was not evaluating voices." This response highlighted the contrast between her perception of the women and the broader allegations of Epstein’s exploitation.
As part of the committee’s inquiry, Groff’s statements were scrutinized alongside other testimonies from Epstein’s associates. Her appearance followed a previous interview with the Oversight Committee, where she described Epstein as a "master manipulator." The panel’s questions aimed to uncover whether her actions, while routine, might have indirectly enabled his crimes. "I hoped my interview would dispel the false notions that I knowingly helped him commit his evil acts," she said, underscoring her desire to clear her name.
Legacy of Epstein’s Case and Groff’s Role
Epstein’s death in 2019 had left a lasting impact on the individuals around him, including Groff. She recounted how the case affected her understanding of the people in Epstein’s orbit, noting that their reputations were often tied to his. "Their business was none of my business," she repeated, a phrase that underscored her belief in the separation between her duties and the criminal activities she was not directly involved in.
Groff’s testimony also touched on the broader implications of Epstein’s case for the federal government. She pointed to the committee’s role in examining how agencies handled the investigation, suggesting that the process might have been flawed. "The inquiry is about whether the government was truly prepared to address these crimes," she said, framing her appearance as part of a larger effort to clarify the facts. Her account, however, raised new questions about the extent of her knowledge and the effectiveness of her safeguards against potential misconduct.
As the committee continues its investigation, Groff’s statements will be weighed alongside other evidence. While she insists her actions were in line with Epstein’s instructions, her testimony adds complexity to the narrative of who knew what and when. The case remains a focal point for discussions on accountability, with Groff’s role as a key witness in the unfolding story of Epstein’s alleged sex crimes. Her appearance, though not under oath, provides a glimpse into the dynamics of power and perception that defined her time working for the convicted sex offender.