Elon Musk Addresses Epstein Email Controversy
Elon Musk asserts that his email exchanges with the late Jeffrey Epstein have been misinterpreted and emphasizes that he never visited Epstein’s private island. The Tesla CEO made these statements on X, formerly Twitter, where he detailed declining multiple invitations to the Caribbean location or to board Epstein’s notorious private jet, known as the ‘Lolita Express’.
Musk acknowledges the potential for detractors to misuse the correspondence but prioritizes justice for Epstein’s victims. ‘I don’t care about that, but what I do care about is that we at least attempt to prosecute those who committed serious crimes with Epstein,’ Musk wrote. He specifically demands accountability for individuals involved in the ‘heinous exploitation of underage girls.’
Details from Newly Released Documents
Recent Department of Justice documents, released on Friday, include emails from Musk to Epstein dated November 25, 2012, inquiring about the best time for a party on the island. ‘What day/night will be the wildest party on our (sic) island?’ Musk asked in one message.
Further exchanges reveal Epstein asking Musk about the number of people for a helicopter trip to the island, with Musk indicating it would likely be himself and his then-wife, Talulah Riley. In a Christmas email, Musk expressed interest in partying in St. Barts but noted that a ‘peaceful island experience’ did not align with his plans. ‘The invitation is much appreciated, but a peaceful island experience is the opposite of what I’m looking for,’ he wrote.
Communications continued into December 2013, with Musk mentioning holiday plans in the British Virgin Islands and St. Barts area and asking for a suitable visit time. Epstein replied affirmatively, offering flexibility. Additional messages discuss helicopter arrangements, with Epstein stating, ‘the 2 or 3 would be perfect. I will come and get you.’ Musk inquired about departure logistics but ultimately delayed plans.
Musk’s Stance on Justice and File Release
Musk dismisses the document release as a mere distraction, arguing that true progress requires arrests. ‘What matters is not release of some subset of the Epstein files, but rather the prosecution of those who committed heinous crimes with Epstein,’ he posted on X. He urges detention of Epstein’s and Ghislaine Maxwell’s clients, stating, ‘Until we see at least one client arrest, this partial release of Epstein files means nothing.’
These emails surfaced four years after Epstein’s 2008 guilty plea in Florida for procuring a child for prostitution. The broader release encompasses over three million pages related to Epstein’s activities, highlighting his connections with high-profile figures.
While the emails suggest a cordial relationship, Musk maintains no island visit occurred. Epstein owned Little St. James in the US Virgin Islands, a site central to allegations of abuse.
