As the United States prepares to release decades’ worth of Jeffrey Epstein files, survivors of the late convicted paedophile are warning of escalating threats to their safety. The group, which has been vocal about demanding justice, says they have already received death threats and fear more will follow as the files are made public.

Survivors Demand Accountability and Legal Support

In a statement titled “What We’re Bracing For”, Epstein’s survivors urged federal and state law enforcement agencies to investigate threats and ensure their protection. The statement, issued Thursday, highlights the ongoing risk faced by victims who have spent years seeking justice while being targeted and blamed for their own abuse.

“Many of us have already received death threats and other threats of harm. We are bracing for these to escalate,” the survivors said. They also warned that some abusers and enablers have attempted to shift blame onto victims or pit them against each other.

Legislative Action and File Release

The push to release Epstein’s records has dominated US political discussions for weeks. Last week, President Donald Trump signed a bill mandating the Justice Department to release all files related to Epstein, following unanimous approval in the Senate. The department now has 30 days to make the files public.

The files are expected to shed light on the network of high-profile individuals connected to Epstein, including figures in politics, business, and entertainment. Survivors hope the release will provide transparency and accountability, ensuring that enablers of Epstein’s crimes are brought to justice.

Personal Stories Highlight the Trauma

For many survivors, the release of these files is deeply personal. Marina Lacerda, who was abused by Epstein at the age of 14, says she struggles to recall much of her early trauma but hopes the files will illuminate key details about her past. “I feel that the government and the FBI knows more than I do, and that scares me, because it’s my life, it’s my past,” Lacerda told The Associated Press.

Similarly, the late Virginia Giuffre, whose story of abuse by Epstein and former UK royal Prince Andrew drew global attention, faced a campaign of intimidation before her death. Survivors continue to fight to prevent similar patterns of harassment.

Call to Action for Congress and the Public

The statement from Epstein’s survivors calls on both lawmakers and the public to continue advocating for the full release of materials. They emphasize that selective disclosure could allow perpetrators and enablers to escape accountability.

“Years ago, Epstein got away with abusing us by portraying us as flawed and bad girls. We cannot let his enablers use this tactic to escape accountability now,” the statement said, signed by 18 named survivors and 10 Jane Does.

As the 30-day deadline approaches, survivors are preparing for a surge of public attention, renewed scrutiny, and, potentially, further threats. They hope the files will not only reveal the extent of Epstein’s abuse but also strengthen the call for justice and legal reforms that protect victims.