Epstein and Les Wexner: The Billionaire Behind the Scandal
Les Wexner, the billionaire founder of L Brands (parent company of Victoria's Secret and Bath & Body Works), had perhaps the most significant financial relationship with Jeffrey Epstein of any of his associates. Epstein managed Wexner's money, held power of attorney over his affairs, and lived in a Manhattan mansion Wexner owned. But how did this relationship begin and what did it entail?
Who Is Les Wexner?
Wexner's background provides context for his Epstein relationship:
- Founder of L Brands - Created retail empire including Victoria's Secret
- Net worth - Estimated at several billion dollars
- Columbus, Ohio base - Major philanthropist in his hometown
- Art collector - Founded the Wexner Center for the Arts
- Reclusive - Rarely gave interviews or sought publicity
How They Met
The origins of the Wexner-Epstein relationship remain somewhat unclear:
What began as a professional relationship evolved into something far more extensive.
- Reportedly met in the 1980s through mutual acquaintances
- Epstein may have been introduced at social events
- Financial world connections in New York
- Wexner was impressed by Epstein's financial acumen
What began as a professional relationship evolved into something far more extensive.
The Power of Attorney
The most remarkable aspect of their relationship was the legal authority Wexner granted Epstein:
This level of trust in someone not a family member or longtime business partner was extraordinary.
- Full power of attorney - Epstein could act on Wexner's behalf
- Control over finances - Authority over billions in assets
- Real estate decisions - Could buy and sell property
- Legal authority - Could sign documents in Wexner's name
This level of trust in someone not a family member or longtime business partner was extraordinary.
The Manhattan Mansion
One symbol of their relationship was Epstein's Manhattan residence:
The 40-room mansion became infamous after Epstein's arrest.
- Located at 9 East 71st Street in Manhattan
- Owned by Wexner through a limited liability company
- Epstein lived there for years
- Reportedly the largest private residence in Manhattan
- Transferred to Epstein in 2011 for $0
The 40-room mansion became infamous after Epstein's arrest.
Financial Questions
The Wexner-Epstein relationship raises significant financial questions:
Reports suggest Wexner's companies and foundations may have paid Epstein hundreds of millions over their relationship.
- How much money did Epstein manage for Wexner?
- What fees did Epstein collect?
- Were there improper transfers of funds?
- Did Epstein use Wexner's money for illegal purposes?
Reports suggest Wexner's companies and foundations may have paid Epstein hundreds of millions over their relationship.
Modeling and Victoria's Secret
The connection to Victoria's Secret raised particular concerns:
The modeling connection became part of broader allegations against Epstein.
- Epstein posed as a recruiter for Victoria's Secret
- Some aspiring models were directed to Epstein
- Allegations of exploitation emerged
- Wexner's company faced questions about oversight
The modeling connection became part of broader allegations against Epstein.
The Relationship Ends
Wexner eventually cut ties with Epstein:
Wexner later claimed he was embarrassed by the association.
- Relationship ended around 2007-2008
- Coincided with Epstein's Florida legal troubles
- Wexner said he severed ties upon learning of allegations
- Some transfers of property occurred after the split
Wexner later claimed he was embarrassed by the association.
Wexner's Response to the Scandal
When Epstein's crimes became public:
The Epstein association became a significant liability for Wexner's reputation.
- Wexner expressed horror at the revelations
- Claimed Epstein had deceived him
- Cooperated with investigations
- Stepped down as L Brands CEO in 2020
The Epstein association became a significant liability for Wexner's reputation.
Les Wexner's relationship with Jeffrey Epstein remains one of the most puzzling aspects of the entire scandal. How did a self-made billionaire grant such extraordinary power to someone with Epstein's mysterious background? The financial relationship, power of attorney, and property transfers all suggest a level of trust that seems inexplicable in hindsight. As investigations continue, the Wexner-Epstein connection remains a subject of intense scrutiny.