Epstein’s Former Attorney Testifies He Was Unaware of Abuse, Cites Cash Needs

Darren Indyke, Jeffrey Epstein’s longtime attorney, testified before the House Oversight Committee on Thursday, March 19, 2026, stating he had “no knowledge whatsoever” of his client’s criminal activity. His testimony centered around large cash withdrawals made by Epstein, which have been scrutinized in civil lawsuits brought by victims.

Cash Withdrawals Explained

Indyke explained that Epstein required substantial amounts of cash to manage his numerous properties and extensive lifestyle. These included residences in New York, Florida, New Mexico, Paris, and the U.S. Virgin Islands, as well as expenses related to staff, maintenance, travel, and gifts. He stated Epstein needed cash because he faced difficulties obtaining credit cards after JPMorgan Chase terminated their relationship with him in 2013. CBS News

Contradictory Evidence Regarding Credit

However, documents released as part of the Epstein files, including credit reports, indicate Epstein maintained credit card accounts with a credit score above 750 between 2011 and 2017. CBS News

Denial of Wrongdoing

Indyke asserted he never attempted to circumvent banking policies regarding cash withdrawals and did not believe the funds were used for “improper purposes.” He maintained that Epstein’s financial position and lifestyle necessitated large cash holdings. ABC News

Other Individuals Involved in Account Management

Indyke noted that other individuals, including accountants Richard Kahn (who testified before the committee on March 11, 2026) and Harry Beller, also had access to Epstein’s accounts and made cash withdrawals. CBS News

Indyke’s Regret and Claimed Ignorance

Indyke stated he now regrets believing in Epstein and that Epstein appeared “extremely contrite” after his 2008 conviction. He reiterated that he was unaware of any sexual abuse until after Epstein’s death in 2019. He described Epstein as leading “two entirely separate lives,” a professional life and a private life that caused harm to others. CBS News, ABC News

Legal Fallout and Settlements

JPMorgan Chase settled a class-action lawsuit from Epstein victims for $290 million, while Deutsche Bank settled a separate lawsuit for $75 million. These settlements stemmed from allegations that the banks failed to flag suspicious activity related to Epstein’s accounts, particularly the large cash withdrawals. CBS News

Ongoing Investigation

Darren K. Indyke arrived for his deposition before the House Oversight Committee on Capitol Hill on Thursday, March 19, 2026, in Washington. AP News