Survivors of Jeffrey Epstein urge Leon Black to testify before House panel

Why Black’s testimony matters to investigators

Leon Black, former CEO of Apollo Global Management, has been asked by survivors of Jeffrey Epstein’s abuse to comply with a congressional subpoena and testify before a House committee investigating his ties to the disgraced financier. The request comes as part of a broader inquiry into financial and personal relationships Epstein maintained with powerful figures in business and politics. Black attended the 2015 Milken Institute conference in Beverly Hills, where he was photographed alongside other prominent attendees. Survivors argue his cooperation is essential to uncovering the full scope of Epstein’s network and any potential enabling of his crimes.

Survivors’ legal representatives say Black’s financial dealings with Epstein, including reported payments and asset management ties, warrant scrutiny under oath. They contend that his testimony could reveal whether he ignored or benefited from Epstein’s illicit activities, despite public denials of wrongdoing. The House panel, which has already interviewed other associates of Epstein, seeks to establish accountability and determine if any financial institutions facilitated or overlooked abusive behavior. Black has previously stated he cut ties with Epstein after learning of his criminal conduct, but survivors dispute the timing and depth of that separation.

What did Black know and when did he know it?

Investigators are particularly focused on the nature and timing of Black’s interactions with Epstein, especially around the period of the 2015 Milken Institute conference. Photos from that event show Black in attendance, though survivors note his presence alone does not prove misconduct. Still, they argue that his continued association with Epstein-linked circles raises questions about due diligence. Black has not publicly addressed the subpoena directly, though his legal team has previously said he is willing to cooperate within legal bounds. The committee has not yet confirmed whether he will appear voluntarily or under compulsion.

Did Leon Black admit to any wrongdoing related to Jeffrey Epstein? No, Leon Black has not admitted to any wrongdoing and has stated he ended his relationship with Epstein upon learning of his criminal behavior.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the House panel hoping to learn from Black’s testimony? The committee aims to understand the extent of Black’s financial and personal ties to Epstein and whether any institutions failed to act on red flags.

Has Leon Black been formally subpoenaed by the House committee? Survivors say he has been asked to comply with a subpoena, though official confirmation of its issuance has not been publicly released by the committee.