In a widely anticipated virtual deposition before the House Oversight Committee, Ghislaine Maxwell invoked her Fifth Amendment right against self-incrimination and declined to answer questions. The session, held on Monday, centered on the investigation into the handling of the Jeffrey Epstein case.
Maxwell, who is currently serving a 20-year sentence for her role in Epstein’s sex trafficking operation, communicated through her legal counsel. According to Committee Chairman James Comer, her attorney stated that Maxwell would only provide testimony if granted clemency by the President.
“As expected, Ghislaine Maxwell took the fifth and refused to answer any questions. This is obviously very disappointing,” Chairman Comer stated following the deposition. “We had many questions regarding the crimes committed and potential co-conspirators. Our goal remains uncovering the truth for the public and securing justice for the survivors.”
Her legal team had previously argued that testifying while her appeal is pending could jeopardize her constitutional claims. In a formal communication, they noted that should clemency be granted, Maxwell would be “willing – and eager – to testify openly and honestly” in a public congressional hearing.
During the proceedings, a representative also relayed a statement from Maxwell’s defense, which asserted she had no information indicating wrongdoing by former Presidents Trump or Clinton.
The deposition follows reports of Maxwell’s transfer to a lower-security facility last year and a private meeting with a senior Justice Department official. These developments have drawn criticism from some quarters, including from individuals identified as victims in the case, who have publicly questioned the rationale behind what they perceive as preferential treatment.
Maxwell’s conviction appeal, filed in late 2025, remains unresolved.