Les Wexner Says He Was “Naive” and “Conned” by Jeffrey Epstein in Congressional Testimony

Billionaire businessman Les Wexner told members of the House Oversight Committee that he was “naive, foolish and gullible” for placing trust in disgraced financier Jeffrey Epstein, insisting he had no knowledge of the crimes that later came to light.

Testifying in Ohio on Wednesday, the former chief executive of Victoria’s Secret said Epstein had deceived him while serving as a financial adviser and misappropriated “vast sums” from his family. Wexner denied any wrongdoing and rejected suggestions that he played a knowing role in enabling Epstein’s operations.

“I was conned,” Wexner told lawmakers. “I have done nothing wrong and have nothing to hide.”

Democratic members of the committee questioned how Epstein amassed his fortune and high-profile lifestyle, arguing that his wealth and access were closely tied to Wexner’s support. Congressman Robert Garcia said Epstein would not have achieved such prominence without backing from the retail magnate.

Wexner acknowledged visiting Epstein’s private Caribbean island briefly with his family but said he was unaware of any abuse. He said he cut ties with Epstein after allegations of sexual misconduct surfaced in Florida in the mid-2000s.

A 2019 FBI document identified Wexner as a potential co-conspirator, though no charges were filed and the document cited limited evidence of involvement. His legal team has previously stated that federal prosecutors informed him he was considered a source of information, not a target.

The deposition comes amid renewed scrutiny of Epstein’s network of powerful associates, as lawmakers seek to understand how the financier operated for years before facing federal charges.