Ghislaine Maxwell, an associate of late financier Jeffrey Epstein, declined to answer questions from lawmakers in a tense hearing before the US House Judiciary Committee on Wednesday.
In the high-stakes testimony, Maxwell remained tight-lipped about her involvement with Epstein and the alleged sex trafficking ring he was accused of running. Despite repeated attempts by committee members to elicit information from her, she refused to provide any details about her relationship with Epstein or the activities they allegedly conducted together.
The hearing came as part of an investigation into Epstein's dealings and those of his associates. Maxwell, who has been charged with conspiracy and sex trafficking in connection with her alleged involvement, had been summoned before Congress to answer questions from lawmakers.
Lawmakers on both sides of the aisle were visibly frustrated by Maxwell's refusal to cooperate, with some accusing her of "stonewalling" the committee. The lack of transparency from Maxwell has raised eyebrows among investigators and observers alike, who say it could be a sign of a larger cover-up.
The US Justice Department had charged Maxwell with several counts including soliciting an underage girl for Epstein and conspiring to entice minors to engage in illegal sex acts. She faces up to 45 years in prison if convicted on all charges.
Despite her silence before Congress, Maxwell's lawyers have indicated that she may speak with investigators at a later date. However, so far, no details about what she might say have been made public.
In the high-stakes testimony, Maxwell remained tight-lipped about her involvement with Epstein and the alleged sex trafficking ring he was accused of running. Despite repeated attempts by committee members to elicit information from her, she refused to provide any details about her relationship with Epstein or the activities they allegedly conducted together.
The hearing came as part of an investigation into Epstein's dealings and those of his associates. Maxwell, who has been charged with conspiracy and sex trafficking in connection with her alleged involvement, had been summoned before Congress to answer questions from lawmakers.
Lawmakers on both sides of the aisle were visibly frustrated by Maxwell's refusal to cooperate, with some accusing her of "stonewalling" the committee. The lack of transparency from Maxwell has raised eyebrows among investigators and observers alike, who say it could be a sign of a larger cover-up.
The US Justice Department had charged Maxwell with several counts including soliciting an underage girl for Epstein and conspiring to entice minors to engage in illegal sex acts. She faces up to 45 years in prison if convicted on all charges.
Despite her silence before Congress, Maxwell's lawyers have indicated that she may speak with investigators at a later date. However, so far, no details about what she might say have been made public.