1. United States
2. Md.
3. Letter

The recent release of Jeffrey Epstein court documents has exposed numerous wealthy and powerful individuals connected to sex trafficking and abuse. While some have resigned from positions of power, these consequences are wholly inadequate for crimes of this magnitude. I am writing to urge you to support legislation that ensures criminal prosecution and mandatory restitution for sexual predators, rather than allowing them to simply retire with their fortunes intact. Consider the pattern we are witnessing. Bill Gates, worth $110 billion, admitted to affairs and cancelled a speaking engagement. Leon Black resigned from Apollo Global Management in 2021 after paying Epstein $158 million between 2012 and 2017, yet retains $15 billion. Casey Wasserman put his business up for sale after extensive communications with Ghislaine Maxwell were revealed, but maintains a $400 million fortune. Jes Staley resigned from Barclays in 2021 despite overseeing 134 accounts connected to Epstein's sex trafficking operation at JPMorgan, and keeps $250 million. These individuals face no criminal charges in the United States for their involvement in or knowledge of child sexual abuse. Meanwhile, international authorities have taken stronger action. Peter Mandelson was arrested for misconduct in public office after sharing confidential government information with Epstein. Prince Andrew was arrested on his 66th birthday for similar charges during his tenure as UK trade envoy from 2001 to 2011. Norway opened a criminal investigation into former Prime Minister Thorbjørn Jagland for aggravated corruption. Resignation is not punishment. Living on yachts and estates is not accountability. I urge you to champion legislation requiring that individuals convicted of sexual abuse crimes or financing sex trafficking must forfeit assets to fund comprehensive healthcare, education, and support services for their victims. Survivors deserve more than watching their abusers walk away wealthy and free. They deserve justice that includes lifelong medical care, mental health treatment, and educational opportunities paid for by those who harmed them.