The founder of entertainment news outlet TMZ has been named in newly released Jeffrey Epstein files, according to reports.
Harvey Levin, a major figure in Hollywood, appears in a single 2011 email in which a crisis public relations executive suggested he could assist with media coverage during efforts to manage Epstein's public image.
The reference has drawn broader scrutiny of high-profile names appearing in the latest document release, even as no evidence links Levin to any wrongdoing or direct involvement in Epstein's activities.
The mention of Harvey Levin appears in an email thread dated 29 March 2011, sent by crisis communications specialist Mike Sitrick to Jeffrey Epstein. From the looks of it, the conversation appears to be about 'what to release' to the press regarding a situation involving a 'duchess.'
Epstein says in a text language, 'Zuckerman suggested shorter n punchier, no attack on press. plead guilty to solicitation, no tabloid exaggeration of pedophilia, je paid a price, no allegations of minors since 05. suggests leaking to london press the absurdity of Fergie's statements, there were law enforcement people in my office when i was on work release that let her in.'
To which Strick replies, 'Okay with leaking to British press — but think we need to get a statement out.'
In the same message, Sitrick wrote, 'Tried to call you. Harvey Levin, who runs TMZ, is a good friend. They haven't reported on this at all, but I might be able to get him to do something on the Duchess and her backpedalling.'
There is no indication in the released materials that Levin was contacted, agreed to assist, or took any action in response to the proposal. His name appears only in this exchange.
The email was sent during a period in which Epstein was attempting to rehabilitate his public image following his 2008 conviction in Florida for procuring a minor for prostitution. He served 13 months in custody under a work-release arrangement as part of a controversial plea deal.
Sitrick, a Los Angeles-based public relations executive known for handling high-profile reputational crises, had been retained to assist Epstein in managing media coverage and limiting further reputational damage.
Source: International Business Times UK
