When it comes to South Florida sex offenders with a penchant for minors, the federal government usually drives a hard bargain. For instance: Brian Martens, a Palm Beach County man who had nude photos of children on his computer and cut a deal to serve 10 years in federal prison.
Or Eric Beasley, 25, a former biology teacher from Broward who expects a year federal sentence after recently pleading guilty to repeat sexual encounters with a year-old student. But when it came to wealthy, well-connected Palm Beach financier Jeffrey Epstein, the feds went all soft. Last decade, Epstein struck a secretive plea deal with federal prosecutors to settle allegations that he hired underage teen girls for massages and sex at his Palm Beach mansion. The treatment seemed lenient, to say the least.
Especially because about 40 girls told investigators about encounters that ranged from topless massages that ended with Epstein masturbating to forced intercourse. Epstein, 62, has settled numerous civil suits with alleged victims, but now some want more than money.
They want an explanation from the feds about the plea deal. They want to know why Epstein escaped with mere months of imprisonment, not years or decades. Using provisions of a victims rights act, four alleged victims are suing the federal government. And one woman, a year-old mother of three known as Jane Doe No. Prince Andrew and Buckingham Palace have denied claims of any illegal conduct.
Edwards has filed a libel countersuit against Dershowitz in Broward Circuit Court. Epstein apparently has gone on with his charmed life. For life. By Michael Mayo. More in News.
