In 2002, Donald Trump was a source for a New York magazine profile of Jefferey Epstein, who was denied bail on Thursday in New York. Epstein faces charges of conspiracy to commit sex trafficking and the sex trafficking of underage girls—allegedly as young as 14.
Seventeen years ago, Epstein was a secretive billionaire whom the magazine dubbed an "international moneyman of mystery." Donald Trump, a less reclusive billionaire, gave insight into the character and personality of his friend, Epstein. "I’ve known Jeff for fifteen years. Terrific guy," Trump said at the time. "He’s a lot of fun to be with. It is even said that he likes beautiful women as much as I do, and many of them are on the younger side. No doubt about it—Jeffrey enjoys his social life."
In 2007, Alex Acosta was a U.S. attorney in Florida who attempted to prosecute Epstein, and then gave him a generous plea agreement. Acosta, of course, later became Trump's labor secretary and as of July 19 has resigned his post amid public outcry over the scandal.
And now new footage has emerged of Trump and Epstein at a party together in 1992.
The most recent charges against Epstein allege that he sexually abused underage girls from 2002 to at least 2005.
In 2003, Epstein was part of a group of investors who unsuccessfully attempted to buy New York magazine.