House Oversight Committee Denies Immunity Request

The House Oversight Committee, under the leadership of GOP Chairman James Comer, has declined a request from Ghislaine Maxwell’s legal team for immunity in exchange for her testimony before Congress. Maxwell, a former associate of Jeffrey Epstein, was subpoenaed last week to testify from prison as part of an ongoing investigation into Epstein’s sex crimes. The deposition was scheduled for August 11.

Maxwell’s Legal Strategy and Fifth Amendment Invocation

On Tuesday, Maxwell’s attorneys communicated with Chairman Comer, indicating that she would invoke her Fifth Amendment rights and remain silent unless granted immunity. Her legal team proposed clemency as a potential solution, expressing that Maxwell was willing to testify openly and honestly if immunity were provided.

Committee’s Response and Legal Concerns

A spokesperson for the Oversight Committee confirmed that while they would respond to Maxwell’s attorneys, they would not consider granting congressional immunity. Maxwell’s legal representatives highlighted potential legal and security risks associated with her testimony and requested advance knowledge of the questions she would face. However, the committee did not address this request directly.

Appeal to the Supreme Court and Previous Agreements

Maxwell’s attorneys have also requested a delay in her deposition until after the Supreme Court rules on her latest appeal regarding her 2021 sex trafficking conviction. They argue that a 2007 non-prosecution agreement should protect her from charges. The legal team contends that Maxwell was unfairly charged following Epstein’s death in 2019 and did not receive a fair trial.

Allegations of Unfair Trial Practices

The defense claims that during her trial in the Southern District of New York, prosecutors unfairly limited her ability to present a defense and allege that at least one juror provided false information during jury selection. Despite reaching out to Maxwell’s attorney, David Oscar Markus, for further comment, no immediate response was received.