New Mexico suing DOJ, Blanche for access to unredacted Epstein records in Zorro Ranch investigation

New Mexico has filed a lawsuit against the U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ) and Acting Attorney General Todd Blanche, demanding access to unredacted records related to the late financier Jeffrey Epstein's alleged crimes at Zorro Ranch, a remote property near Santa Fe. The 40-page legal complaint alleges that the DOJ is obstructing the state’s investigation into Epstein’s activities, which include accusations of sexual abuse and trafficking involving minors. The case centers on a 2019 email from an anonymous source that claimed two girls were buried near the ranch, an allegation that surfaced shortly after Epstein’s death by suicide while awaiting trial on sex trafficking charges. The state’s investigation into Zorro Ranch was reopened in February, following a search of the property conducted by local authorities. Since then, New Mexico officials have repeatedly sought information from the DOJ that could help identify potential witnesses, corroborate existing evidence, and clarify the extent of Epstein’s involvement in the area. According to the complaint, these efforts have been met with resistance, with the DOJ citing the protection of victim privacy as a primary justification for withholding sensitive materials. Attorney General Raúl Torrez, representing New Mexico, argues that the DOJ’s refusal to share unredacted documents violates both legal obligations and prior agreements. The complaint specifically references an agreement between the state and the Southern District of New York, which once required state investigators to pause their work until the federal probe concluded. New Mexico claims it had no reason to believe federal officials would break that agreement, thereby hindering its ability to pursue justice under state law. In response, a DOJ spokesperson told The Hill that the department is bound by protective orders issued in the Southern District of New York, which prohibit the unrestricted release of victim-identifying information. The spokesperson emphasized that protecting privacy remains a key priority, stating that neither the state’s requests nor its desire for cooperation override this commitment. The DOJ also noted that it is willing to assist New Mexico’s investigation “consistent with the law and binding court orders.” The dispute highlights broader tensions between state and federal authorities regarding the handling of high-profile cases involving public figures. The New Mexico attorney general’s office has accused Blanche and the DOJ of obstructing the state’s ability to hold Epstein’s associates accountable, particularly given that New Mexico is one of the few jurisdictions still able to pursue legal action against individuals linked to the case. This is especially critical because many of Epstein’s associates have either fled or are deceased, leaving the state as a potential last chance for accountability. The Zorro Ranch, located approximately 60 miles north of Albuquerque, has become a focal point for multiple investigations. It is currently owned by Don Huffines, a former Texas state senator who is running for a full term as Texas comptroller. Huffines acquired the property in 2023, with reports suggesting that the purchase was funded by proceeds intended for Epstein victims. His ownership of the ranch has raised questions about potential conflicts of interest, particularly given his political ambitions. Meanwhile, a bipartisan special committee of state lawmakers has begun its own probe into alleged illegal activity at Zorro Ranch. Earlier this month, the committee issued its first round of subpoenas, signaling a growing push for transparency and accountability. The committee’s efforts underscore the increasing scrutiny being placed on the ranch and its current owner, even as the legal battle between New Mexico and the DOJ continues to unfold.