US investigators search Epstein’s New Mexico ranch amid allegations of buried bodies
The late financier is also accused of sexually abusing women and girls at the property near Santa Fe, which he visited for 26 years
Investigators in New Mexico began searching on Monday the former ranch of Jeffrey Epstein where the late financier and his acquaintances are accused of sexually abusing women and girls, state authorities said.
Democratic-run New Mexico is acting on new information in documents released in January by the US Department of Justice, including an accusation that Epstein ordered the bodies of two foreign girls buried in hills near the secluded property.
The search follows New Mexico Attorney General Raul Torrez’s decision last month to reopen the investigation into the late sex offender’s alleged criminal activities at the ranch 48km (30 miles) south of the state’s capital of Santa Fe.
“The New Mexico Department of Justice will continue to keep the public appropriately informed, support the survivors, and follow the facts wherever they lead,” it said in a statement.
On Monday, a Reuters witness heard dogs barking and saw a government vehicle bearing a paw-print symbol, suggesting it was carrying animals, leave the ranch.
00:49
Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor arrested on suspicion of misconduct in public office
State police and a county fire and rescue vehicle were also spotted.