Full Breakdown
Les Wexner to Testify on Relationship with Jeffrey Epstein
2/17/2026, 10:10:19 PM
Upcoming Congressional Deposition
Billionaire Les Wexner, founder of L Brands, is scheduled to be deposed by the House Committee on Oversight and Government Reform on February 18, 2026, at his mansion in New Albany, Ohio. This deposition is part of an investigation into his long-standing relationship with Jeffrey Epstein, a former financial adviser and accused child sex trafficker who died in 2019. Wexner has not been charged with any crimes related to Epstein, but his ties to the financier have drawn significant scrutiny.
Background of Wexner and Epstein's Relationship
Les Wexner and Jeffrey Epstein first met in 1986 in Palm Beach, Florida, through insurance executive Robert Meister. By 1987, Epstein became Wexner's financial adviser, a role he maintained until 2007. During this period, Wexner's company expanded to include brands such as The Limited, Express, and Victoria's Secret. Notably, Wexner donated 10 million shares of Limited stock, valued at over $230 million, to create the Ohio Higher Education Trust, with Epstein listed as a trustee.
Wexner ended his relationship with Epstein in 2007 amid allegations of Epstein's criminal activities and after discovering that Epstein had misappropriated funds from him. Despite Wexner's claims of severing ties in 2007, emails indicate that they communicated as late as 2008, shortly before Epstein pleaded guilty to soliciting sex from a minor.
Investigative Findings and Allegations
Congressional investigations have repeatedly mentioned Wexner as a potential co-conspirator in Epstein's crimes, although he has consistently denied any knowledge of Epstein's illegal activities prior to their split. Documents released by the Department of Justice (DOJ) have included references to Wexner alongside other Epstein associates, such as Ghislaine Maxwell, who is currently imprisoned for her involvement in Epstein's operations. Wexner's representatives assert that he was never a target of the investigation and cooperated fully with authorities.
Criticism and Opposition
Critics have raised questions about Wexner's level of involvement and knowledge regarding Epstein's actions. Attorney Brad Edwards, who has represented Epstein's accusers, expressed skepticism about claims that Wexner was unaware of Epstein's criminal conduct, calling Wexner's denials "very highly likely to be true." However, the ongoing scrutiny of Wexner's financial dealings and his relationship with Epstein continues to fuel public and legal interest.
Official Statements and Responses
In response to the upcoming deposition, a spokesperson for the House Oversight Committee stated that the deposition will proceed in accordance with established procedures. Wexner's representatives have emphasized that he was informed he was neither a target nor a co-conspirator in the Epstein investigation, asserting that he has provided valuable information to authorities.
Conflicting Reports and Gaps
While Wexner has maintained his innocence and lack of knowledge regarding Epstein's crimes, the DOJ files have included references to him as a co-conspirator, leading to conflicting interpretations of his involvement. The redaction of Wexner's name in some documents has also sparked controversy, with U.S. Attorney General Pam Bondi clarifying that the error was corrected promptly.
Conclusion
As Les Wexner prepares to testify before Congress, the implications of his relationship with Jeffrey Epstein continue to unfold. While he has not faced criminal charges, the ongoing investigation and public interest highlight the complexities of their association and the broader issues surrounding Epstein's network.
