The deposition of US billionaire Les Wexner has taken a dramatic turn after his lawyer was caught on a hot mic threatening him to keep his answers short. The incident, captured in video released by the House Oversight Committee, underscores the strain in the ongoing probe into the Epstein files.
Wexner, 88, denied any knowledge of Epstein's sex crimes,calling himself 'naïve' for trusting the 'world-class con man'. Democrats labelled the testimony evasive, raising more questions than answers.
The remark came from Michael Levy, Wexner's attorney, about four and a half hours into questioning on 18 February at Wexner's Ohio home. 'I'll f***ing kill youif you answer another question with more than five words, OK?' Levy whispered, apparently irked by Wexner's tendency to elaborate.
Wexner chuckled in response, but the exchange has sparked debate about whether it reflects efforts to limit disclosures in the sensitive Epstein inquiry. The clip quickly spread online, with conservative commentator Benny Johnson sharing iton Xto his millions of followers, describing it as a 'hot mic' revelation in the Epstein saga.
🚨HOT MIC: Les Wexner’s attorney during his House Oversight Committee deposition:“I’ll fucking kill you if you answer another question with more than five words, ok?”pic.twitter.com/YgKXWjgSF2
It adds a layer of intrigue to Wexner's appearance before the committee, which subpoenaed him afterJustice Departmentfiles highlighted his role in Epstein's rise. Thefull five-hour video, made public on 19 February, showsWexner fielding questionson everything from financial dealings to social interactions with Epstein. Levy did not comment on the incident when approached.
Wexner met Epstein in themid-1980sthrough mutual business contacts, including Bear Stearns executives and members of the Rothschild family. By 1991, he had granted Epsteinpower of attorneyover his finances, allowing him to manage investments, properties, and deals. Committee members pressed Wexner on transfers totalling about£744 million ($1 billion), including stocks and direct payments that bolstered Epstein's empire.
Wexner insisted he was duped, claiming he discovered in 2007 that Epstein had stolen vast sums from his family. He revoked Epstein's authority, removed him from bank accounts, and forced a resignation from related entities. Epsteinrepaid £74.4 million ($100 million), though Wexner believed this was only part of the misappropriated funds. Wexner denied social closeness, saying their relationship was professional and he never witnessed Epstein's crimes.
He rejected allegations from accuser Virginia Giuffre that Epstein trafficked her to him, calling them 'absolutely and entirely false'. Wexner admitted visiting Epstein's Caribbean island once, describing it as 'crummy', and said he had minimal contact with figures like former Prince Andrew or Donald Trump through Epstein. A 2003 interview praising Epstein's 'high standards' was attributed to naivety.
Democrats on the committee were unimpressed, with ranking member Robert Garcia asserting Wexner provided no new insights and showed little remorse. 'He denied everything,' Garcia said midway through the deposition, highlighting Wexner's pivotal role in funding Epstein's lifestyle, including his plane and properties.
Source: International Business Times UK
