Les Wexner Testifies He Was Deceived by Epstein

Billionaire retail magnate Les Wexner testified before Democratic members of the House Oversight Committee on Wednesday in a closed-door deposition at his home in New Albany, Ohio, maintaining that he was deceived by Jeffrey Epstein and had no knowledge of the financier's criminal activities.

Wexner, 88, the founder of L Brands, which once owned brands including Victoria's Secret, Bath & Body Works, and Abercrombie & Fitch, described Epstein as a "world-class con man" and "master manipulator" who hid his predatory behavior. In a prepared statement provided to the committee, Wexner said, "I was naïve, foolish, and gullible to put any trust in Jeffrey Epstein. He was a con man. And while I was conned, I have done nothing wrong and have nothing to hide." He emphasized that he severed ties with Epstein nearly 20 years ago after discovering the financier had misappropriated funds from his family and learning of his abusive conduct.

The deposition, conducted by five Democratic lawmakers including Representatives Robert Garcia of California and Stephen Lynch of Massachusetts, focused on Wexner's long association with Epstein, which began in the 1980s. Wexner recounted meeting Epstein...