Investigators Search Jeffrey Epstein’s Former New Mexico Ranch for Evidence

New Mexico authorities have begun searching Jeffrey Epstein's former Zorro Ranch property following allegations it was used for sexual abuse and trafficking. The investigation was reopened last month after previously sealed FBI files revealed new information warranting further examination.

SANTA FE, N.M. — Authorities in New Mexico initiated a comprehensive search Monday of a remote ranch property once owned by convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein, following claims the location may have served as a site for sexual exploitation and trafficking of young women.

State Attorney General Raúl Torrez’s office confirmed the investigation is proceeding with full assistance from the property’s current owners.

The attorney general revived the ranch investigation last month after it had been shuttered in 2019 upon request from federal prosecutors in New York. State officials now indicate that “revelations outlined in the previously sealed FBI files warrant further examination.”

The disgraced financier acquired the expansive Zorro Ranch property in Stanley, New Mexico — located roughly 30 miles south of Santa Fe — in 1993 from former Democratic Governor Bruce King. Epstein constructed an elaborate hilltop estate complete with its own airstrip on the grounds.

Following Epstein’s death, his estate sold the ranch in 2023 to the family of Don Huffines, who recently secured the Republican nomination for Texas state comptroller. The sale proceeds were directed toward paying estate creditors.

“The New Mexico Department of Justice appreciates the cooperation of the current property owners,” officials stated. Prosecutors pledged to “continue to keep the public appropriately informed, support the survivors, and follow the facts wherever they lead.”

State lawmakers have also created a special commission tasked with examining historical activities that occurred at the ranch property.

Epstein died by suicide in a New York City jail cell in 2019 while facing federal charges for sexually abusing and trafficking numerous underage victims.

Though Epstein was never prosecuted in New Mexico, state prosecutors acknowledged in 2019 that they had conducted interviews with potential victims who had visited the ranch facility.