SANTA FE, New Mexico — The New Mexico Department of Justice has conducted a search of Zorro Ranch, the remote estate formerly owned by Jeffrey Epstein, as part of a recently reopened criminal investigation. According to an announcement from the New Mexico Department of Justice, the search took place Monday morning under the direction of Raúl Torrez, with the participation of local and state police forces.

Investigation Reopened

Attorney General Torrez reopened the investigation last month into the estate located approximately 30 miles south of Santa Fe. The initial investigation file was previously opened but closed in 2019 at the request of federal prosecutors in New York City. However, state prosecutors believe that new information in previously sealed FBI records indicates a need to review the case.

Numerous Allegations Surrounding the Estate

For years, Zorro Ranch was allegedly a place where Epstein frequently brought guests, and there were rumors that underage girls were flown there on his private planes. Epstein was never criminally prosecuted in New Mexico, but the state attorney general's office said they had interviewed potential victims who had visited the ranch. Last month, New Mexico state lawmakers also established a new investigative committee to determine whether the estate was used to facilitate child abuse in New Mexico and human trafficking.

A Massive Estate in the Desert

Epstein purchased the ranch in 1993 from former New Mexico Governor Bruce King. The vast property includes:
  • a 26,700-square-foot hacienda-style mansion
  • multiple guesthouses
  • a swimming pool
  • a ranch management office
  • a heated garage
  • a private airstrip
  • a hangar and helipad
After Epstein's death, the property was sold in 2023 to the family of former Texas State Senator Don Huffines. The current owners have cooperated with authorities and allowed the search of the area.

Context of the Epstein Case

Jeffrey Epstein died in 2019 in a Manhattan jail cell while awaiting trial on charges of sexual abuse and trafficking of multiple minors. The New Mexico Department of Justice stated they will continue to follow the evidence and provide updates to the public as new progress is made.

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