Billionaire Elon Musk said the recent release of Jeffrey Epstein-related documents is “a distraction” and warned that his emails with Epstein could be “misinterpreted” to damage his reputation.
The documents, released Friday by the U.S. Department of Justice, include millions of pages, photos, and videos related to Epstein’s network. Musk said he had “very little correspondence” with Epstein and repeatedly declined invitations to visit Epstein’s private island.
Some emails from 2012 and 2013 show Musk asking Epstein about parties on the island and potential visits. Musk said he was “disappointed” that a proposed visit never happened and confirmed he never flew on Epstein’s private jet, nicknamed the “Lolita Express.”
Musk emphasized on X that he has never been accused of any wrongdoing. He also said he supported the release of Epstein’s files and called for the prosecution of those who committed crimes, particularly the sexual exploitation of minors.
He wrote, “When there is at least one arrest, some justice will be done. If not, this is all performative. Nothing but a distraction.” Musk stressed that legal action is more important than the public release of documents.
Musk’s statement comes after public scrutiny over high-profile names in the documents, which also mention figures like Bill Gates, Steven Tisch, and other wealthy associates. The release follows years of pressure on the DOJ and lawmakers for transparency.
Epstein, who died in prison in 2019, was accused of sexually assaulting more than 100 people. His associate, Ghislaine Maxwell, was convicted in 2021 of sex trafficking and helping recruit victims.