Justice Department Epstein files indicate classified material was collected
At least three documents in DOJ’s Epstein files indicate classified information was included, CBS News reported. A March 25, 2025, record lists 16 items delivered to the deputy attorney general’s office, including classified material and two CDs containing classified materials. The documents do not clarify what was classified; then-deputy attorney general Blanche said nothing was withheld on national-defense grounds.
More context
Documents in the Justice Department’s Epstein files indicate that classified material was collected, but do not establish whether it was withheld from public release, CBS News reported. At least three documents in the files point to classified information. One record shows 16 Epstein-related items delivered to the Office of the Deputy Attorney General on March 25, 2025; two entries are labeled “Epstein Transparency Project - Classified Material” and “CDs with classified materials (x2).” The project reviewed files for release, including decisions to redact, withhold or clear them. Blanche, who was deputy attorney general at the time, said the department was not withholding anything based on national defense information. By law, material can be classified only for national security purposes, but the documents do not explain what was classified or why.
Was this story useful?
What was the main problem? (optional)
Reporting
Verifier’s note
CBS News reports that documents indicate classified material was included in files collected by the Justice Department, including material received by the Deputy Attorney General’s office. This directly supports the proposed event and was published within the past 24 hours.