Goldman Sachs Lawyer Denies Representing Epstein, Yet Advised Him Legally
Goldman Sachs’ top lawyer, Kathryn Ruemmler, stated she never represented Jeffrey Epstein. However, newly disclosed emails indicate she provided legal advice to the convicted sex offender. These revelations emerged through documents released under the Epstein Files Transparency Act.
Kathryn Ruemmler’s Involvement with Jeffrey Epstein
Beginning in 2014, Ruemmler communicated with Epstein on several legal matters. This included advisory discussions related to accusations made by Virginia Roberts Giuffre, who was a known survivor of Epstein’s alleged trafficking. Court documents show that she engaged in hundreds of communications, which often included discussions with Epstein and his other lawyers.
Email Correspondence and Gifts
- Ruemmler received various gifts from Epstein, including:
- An Hermes bag
- A Fendi purse and coat
- Spa days at luxury hotels
- Flowers and other assorted gifts
- In May 2019, documents revealed Epstein made a payment exceeding $53,000 to a private jet charter company with a note referencing Ruemmler.
Ruemmler’s spokesperson clarified that although Epstein provided unsolicited gifts, she did not accept the jet offer. Furthermore, Ruemmler has stated she acted with integrity and has nothing to hide regarding her communications with Epstein.
Professional Context and Legal Strategy
Ruemmler was introduced to Epstein shortly after departing the Obama administration. He sought her assistance in multiple matters, including a proposed donor-advised fund with Bill Gates. Ruemmler’s professional relationship with Epstein evolved to the extent that he began soliciting her for advice on his own legal troubles.
Legal Communications on Allegations
In April 2015, Epstein requested Ruemmler’s guidance on how to respond to Giuffre’s claims. They discussed potential statements regarding allegations of liability. Their exchanges included crafting a letter to the press aimed at correcting claims against Epstein.
Ruemmler also offered insights on legal strategies, including how to tarnish witness credibility in Giuffre’s case. Notably, she suggested approaches to undermine Giuffre’s claims, implying age-related inconsistencies in her narrative.
Media and Public Scrutiny
Following an investigative series by the Miami Herald in 2018, public attention on Epstein’s activities intensified. Ruemmler communicated with lawyers regarding a draft letter to then-Senator Ben Sasse to address the revived scrutiny.
Despite her claims of informal involvement, Ruemmler was drawn further into scrutiny as documents showed she engaged with Epstein in response to a grand jury subpoena.
Final Communications and Aftermath
When Epstein was arrested at a New Jersey airport in July 2019, he immediately reached out to Ruemmler. She was reportedly present during his court arraignment shortly thereafter.
In light of these events, questions surround the nature of Ruemmler’s involvement with Epstein. She continues to assert that her intentions were never to defend his alleged crimes.
Goldman Sachs CEO David Solomon endorsed Ruemmler, emphasizing her contributions to the firm and the support she receives from its leadership.
These revelations and ongoing investigations underscore the complexities surrounding high-profile figures, legal ethics, and the implications of their associations with individuals accused of serious crimes.
