New Mexico Searches Epstein's Former Ranch in Probe

New Mexico authorities conducted a search of Jeffrey Epstein's former ranch this week, marking a significant step in a state criminal investigation into alleged criminal activity at the property, while federal lawmakers continue to pursue long-lost evidence from the financier's 2005 Florida home.

The operation at the 7,500-acre estate, once known as Zorro Ranch and now called San Rafael Ranch, involved the New Mexico Department of Justice and multiple agencies. It is the first major onsite action since the probe launched in February. The property, located near Santa Fe, has been linked to Epstein's sex trafficking network through victim allegations dating back years. Officials did not disclose whether any evidence was recovered, but they emphasized support for survivors and a commitment to follow facts. The current owner, Texas businessman Don Huffines, who purchased the ranch in 2023, stated that his representatives fully cooperated with investigators.

Democratic state Representative Andrea Romero described the search as a major development after years of delays. "I think this is a massive development and progress made on what folks have been asking for years since 2019,"...