I work with human trafficking survivors. Rich men like Bill Gates can do more to make amends for their Epstein ties | Bridgette Carr

"I read the files because I served as the expert witness for the US Virgin Islands in its litigation against JPMorgan Chase, which alleged that the bank maintained a financial relationship with Epstein despite evidence of his sex trafficking. The case ended in a 2023 settlement; the bank did not admit wrongdoing. I reviewed the messages from men with power and wealth in Epstein's orbit. I saw what they said, what they didn't say, and what they saw and didn't see."

"In my work representing trafficking survivors, I've learned that moments like these follow a depressingly predictable script. There are apologies. There are carefully lawyered statements about what someone did or didn't see. And then, if the news cycle cooperates, most people move on. The survivors don't get to."

"It was power and wealth that allowed Epstein's exploitation to continue for as long as it did. Gates' apology—and others like it—are necessary. I want to be clear about that. Acknowledging it was a mistake to spend time with Epstein matters. But it is not sufficient. Not even close."

A sex trafficking expert who reviewed Epstein documents as an expert witness in litigation against JPMorgan Chase examines the inadequacy of public apologies from powerful figures like Bill Gates. The expert witnessed how Epstein's wealth and power created an ecosystem of exploitation lasting decades, with financial institutions and influential people enabling his crimes. While acknowledging mistakes in associating with Epstein represents progress, such apologies follow predictable patterns that allow perpetrators and enablers to move forward while survivors remain burdened. The expert emphasizes that those with means who participated in Epstein's world carry a moral debt requiring more than carefully worded statements—they must demonstrate genuine accountability and systemic change.

Read at www.theguardian.com