LA Olympics Chief Wasserman Apologizes to Maxwell, Denies Epstein Connections
Casey Wasserman, the chief of the Los Angeles 2028 Olympics, recently issued an apology over emails exchanged with Ghislaine Maxwell, a convicted sex trafficker. The U.S. Department of Justice published these personal communications, dating back to 2003, which displayed a flirtatious tone. At the time, Wasserman was married.
Context Behind the Apology
Wasserman’s apology comes after the release of documents related to Jeffrey Epstein, the late financier and associate of Maxwell. Epstein had been facing serious allegations when he died in jail in 2019.
Details of the Communications
- The emails between Wasserman and Maxwell illustrate an inappropriate personal connection.
- Wasserman expressed regret for any association with both Maxwell and Epstein.
- He clarified in a statement, “I never had a personal or business relationship with Jeffrey Epstein.”
Legal Background
Ghislaine Maxwell is currently serving a 20-year prison sentence after being found guilty of sex trafficking minors in 2021. She was arrested in 2020 based on accusations that she had helped recruit and groom girls for Epstein from 1994 to 2004.
IOC Response
The International Olympic Committee (IOC) chose not to comment on the controversy surrounding Wasserman. IOC President Kirsty Coventry stated, “Mr. Wasserman has put out his statement and we have nothing further to add.” She acknowledged that distractions often occur before the Olympics.
Past Olympic Distractions
Coventry recalled previous instances that caused concern ahead of the Games, including the Zika virus outbreak before the 2016 Rio Olympics. She mentioned that the world often remembers the “magic and spirit” of the Olympics once the ceremonies begin.
Casey Wasserman’s Role
As a prominent sports and entertainment executive, Wasserman has been leading the LA28 Olympic project since its initial bid. He currently chairs the organizing committee, which is scheduled to report progress to the IOC on Tuesday. The Summer Olympics were awarded to Los Angeles in 2017.
Wasserman’s recent apology underscores the need for public figures to reflect on their past associations amidst ongoing issues related to sexual exploitation and trafficking. His statements aim to distance himself from the notorious histories of both Maxwell and Epstein.
