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Billionaire Les Wexner told US lawmakers on Wednesday that he was "naive, foolish and gullible" for trusting Jeffrey Epstein. In a statement at the start of a closed-door deposition, the former Victoria's Secret CEO—who is alleged to have helped Epstein build his fortune—accused the late sex offender of stealing "vast sums" of money from his family while serving as their financial adviser.
Wexner, who was testifying before a House committee as part of its probe into the Epstein case, has denied any wrongdoing.
He was described as a potential co-conspirator of Epstein's in a 2019 FBI document, but no charges were ever brought against him. Lawmakers accused the billionaire, who gave Epstein broad powers over his finances, of knowing about the other man's crimes but failing to stop them.
Wexner had been called before the House of Representatives Oversight Committee to answer questions surrounding his relationship with Epstein in the wake of the release of thousands of documents related to the financier's wrongdoing.
Members of the committee travelled to Wexner's home state of Ohio for the testimony.
A spokesperson for the 88-year-old tycoon told the BBC: "Mr Wexner honestly answered every question put to him today by the Committee.
"Mr Wexner reiterated that he has no knowledge of, and did not participate in, Epstein's illegal conduct. He stands by that fervently.”
Only Democratic lawmakers attended the deposition. No Republican lawmakers travelled for it, though some of their staff members did attend. The Democrats addressed reporters after the session.
Although Wexner gave his testimony behind closed doors, his opening statement was made public.
In the statement, Wexner said his relationship with Epstein was limited, and denied any knowledge of the convicted sex offender's abuse.
"I was naive, foolish and gullible to put any trust in Jeffrey Epstein," he said. "He was a conman. And while I was conned, I have done nothing wrong and have nothing to hide."
He said he was "pleased to testify" and wanted "to set the record straight".
Wexner also said he had visited Epstein's private island for "a few hours" with his family.
The pair's relationship dates back to the 1980s and Wexner has said he cut ties after Epstein was accused of sexually abusing children in Florida.
