A secluded desert ranch once owned by convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein is facing renewed scrutiny as New Mexico lawmakers push to uncover what happened there.
According to The Associated Press, Democratic state Rep. Andrea Romero of Santa Fe announced a proposal Thursday for a $2.5 million “truth commission” to investigate Epstein’s Zorro Ranch — a sprawling property with a private runway and hilltop mansion about 35 miles south of Santa Fe.
“This commission will specifically seek the truth about what officials knew, how crimes were unreported or reported, and how the state can ensure that this essentially never happens again,” Romero said. “There’s no complete record of what occurred.”
Romero said survivors have indicated that Epstein’s sex trafficking activity extended to the ranch, but too little is known to ensure safeguards are in place to prevent future abuse.
Epstein purchased Zorro Ranch in 1993 from former Democratic Gov. Bruce King and built a 26,700-square-foot mansion. His estate sold the property in 2023, with proceeds going to creditors.
While Epstein never faced charges in New Mexico, the state attorney general’s office confirmed in 2019 that it had interviewed possible victims linked to the ranch. Attorney General Raúl Torrez later launched a financial investigation into businesses tied to Epstein, resulting in $17 million in settlements for anti-trafficking programs.
Lawmakers from both parties expressed cautious support for the commission, citing concern that Epstein avoided registering as a sex offender in New Mexico after his 2008 conviction in Florida for soliciting a minor.
“I do feel like this is a unique opportunity to help victims,” said Republican Rep. Andrea Reeb. “I do believe New Mexicans do have a right to know what happened at this ranch.”
But some questioned the timing. “Why not a long time ago?” asked Republican Rep. Stafani Lord. “Every time I ride my motorcycle past there, I get sick to my stomach.”
If approved, the bipartisan truth commission could take up to two years to deliver its findings.
