Epstein Ranch Investigation Reopened in New Mexico

SANTA FE, N.M. — State investigators are conducting a search of the former Zorro Ranch, once owned by the late financier and convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein, amid renewed allegations of sexual abuse and sex trafficking. The search began on Monday, March 9, 2026 and is being conducted with the cooperation of the current property owners as reported by the New York Times.

Investigation Revived After FBI Files Release

New Mexico Attorney General Raúl Torrez reopened the investigation last month, citing revelations contained in previously sealed FBI files. The initial New Mexico case was closed in 2019 at the request of federal prosecutors in New York, who were leading a multi-jurisdictional prosecution according to the Associated Press. Prosecutors now believe the new information warrants further examination.

The Zorro Ranch: A History

Epstein purchased the nearly 10,000-acre ranch, known as Zorro Ranch, located approximately 30 miles south of Santa Fe in Stanley, New Mexico, in 1993 from former Democratic Governor Bruce King. He subsequently built a hilltop mansion featuring a private runway as detailed in reports by The Guardian.

Current Ownership

The property was sold in 2023, with proceeds going to Epstein’s creditors, to the family of Don Huffines, a Republican candidate for state comptroller in Texas who recently won the primary election the AP reported.

Ongoing Efforts and Survivor Support

The New Mexico Department of Justice has expressed appreciation for the cooperation of the current property owners. Prosecutors have stated their commitment to keeping the public informed, supporting survivors, and following the facts wherever they may lead as stated in an official release. New Mexico state legislators have established a new commission to investigate past activities at the ranch.

Epstein’s Death and Previous Investigations

Epstein died by suicide in a Manhattan jail in 2019 even as awaiting trial on charges of sexually abusing and trafficking dozens of underage girls. While Epstein never faced charges in New Mexico, the state attorney general’s office confirmed in 2019 that it had interviewed potential victims who had visited the ranch according to the Associated Press.