Maxwell will tell the "unfiltered truth" about Epstein if Trump grants her a pardon

Jeffrey Epstein's associate Ghislaine Maxwell refused to answer questions during Monday's hearing before the US House of Representatives Committee on Oversight and Government Reform. She invoked the Fifth Amendment, which allows her to remain silent so as not to incriminate herself.

Maxwell is serving a 20-year sentence after being found guilty in 2021 of aiding Epstein in the sexual abuse of underage girls. Her stance has drawn criticism from both Republicans and Democrats.

Committee Chairman James Comer said lawmakers wanted answers about the crimes and possible accomplices, but did not get them.

Democrats claim that Maxwell used the hearing to seek a pardon from President Donald Trump. Her lawyer, David Markus, said that if the committee and the public want to hear the "unfiltered truth" about the Epstein case, there is a simple way: Maxwell is prepared to speak openly if Trump grants her a pardon.

The hearing took place at a time when the Justice Department is releasing millions of documents related to Epstein.

(reuters, est)