The Wexner–Epstein Files: Power, Money and Abusive Trust
Les Wexner established one of the largest retail empires in American history. He turned small clothing stores into global brands, reshaped shopping malls, and poured tens of billions into philanthropy. For decades, he was celebrated as a business visionary and regarded as Ohio’s most powerful figure.
Today, however, Jeffrey Epstein’s name is permanently attached to his legacy.
As new Epstein-related court documents continue to surface in 2026, Wexner remains one of the most troubling figures in the entire story. Not because he was loud or reckless, but because he was quiet, influential, and placed complete trust in the wrong person.
The Man Who Revolutionized American Shopping
In 1982, Wexner made a decision that would define his career. He purchased Victoria’s Secret for just $1 million. At the time, the brand was struggling and primarily marketed toward men. Wexner completely reworked the concept, redesigned it for women, and turned it into a global brand worth billions.
Over the years, his empire expanded to include Bath & Body Works, Abercrombie & Fitch, and Express. He also acquired Mast Industries, giving his companies unmatched control over manufacturing and supply chains. At his peak, Wexner became the longest-serving CEO in Fortune 500 history.
Constructing a City, Not Just a Business
Wexner’s influence stretched far beyond retail. In Ohio, particularly in Columbus, his presence was nearly unavoidable. Universities, hospitals, and art centers carried his name. He played a major role in developing New Albany, an upscale suburb designed to reflect a carefully controlled vision of wealth and order.
He helped co-found the Columbus Partnership, a powerful group of executives who quietly shaped local policy and development. In Central Ohio, few major decisions moved forward without Wexner’s approval or involvement.
He wasn’t just wealthy. He was untouchable.
Enter Jeffrey Epstein
Wexner first met Jeffrey Epstein in the late 1980s through financial advisor Harold Levin. Levin later claimed he warned Wexner that something about Epstein felt wrong. The warning was ignored. Levin was dismissed, and Epstein was promoted.
At the time, Epstein had little public record in high-level finance. Yet he quickly became far more than an advisor. He positioned himself as the gatekeeper to Wexner’s money, schedule, staff, and personal affairs.
Longtime advisors were gradually pushed aside. By 1991, Epstein had become the only person Wexner relied on.
A Power of Attorney With Lasting Consequences
In July 1991, Wexner signed a document granting Epstein full power of attorney. This allowed Epstein to sign legal documents, move money, borrow funds, and act entirely in Wexner’s name.
Legally, Epstein became Wexner’s equal.
This authority allowed Epstein to manage properties, staff, travel, and finances without oversight. That same year, Wexner purchased a Boeing 727, which Epstein was allowed to use freely. The aircraft later became infamous.
Living Inside the Billionaire’s World
Epstein didn’t just work for Wexner. He lived within his world. He stayed on Wexner-owned properties, operated from Wexner-owned homes, and moved freely through heavily guarded spaces.
Because of his close association with the head of Victoria’s Secret, Epstein presented himself as a model scout. Young women believed him. Parents trusted him. He was frequently seen inside company offices and alongside the CEO.
In 1993, a Victoria’s Secret executive warned Wexner that Epstein was approaching girls. Wexner reportedly said he would address the issue. Epstein’s access continued.
Maria Farmer and the Ohio Estate
In 1996, artist Maria Farmer says she was invited to work as an artist in residence at the Wexner estate. Instead, she alleges she was assaulted by Epstein and Ghislaine Maxwell inside a guest house.
Farmer later discovered hidden cameras throughout the property. She attempted to report the assault, but authorities did not pursue her claims.
The following morning, she says armed guards prevented her from leaving the estate. The guards were off-duty sheriff’s deputies working as private security. She was detained for hours until her father arrived from another state and demanded her release.
Farmer has also stated that she needed permission from Wexner’s wife, Abigail, even to step outside the guest house.
The Allegations Multiply
Unsealed court documents tied to survivor lawsuits brought Wexner back into focus. In a 2016 deposition later made public, Virginia Giuffre accused Wexner of sexually abusing her while she was a minor.
She alleged she was instructed on how to dress and behave and described multiple encounters.
Wexner has denied all allegations, stating he was never involved in Epstein’s crimes and was misled by those he trusted.
The Money Trail That Won’t Disappear
After Epstein’s death, JPMorgan Chase flagged more than $1 billion in suspicious transactions tied to Epstein’s network. Some involved trusts connected to Wexner.
A 2019 report highlighted $65 million in wire transfers associated with Wexner-controlled entities. Bank compliance officers raised concerns a
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