Reading - The Epstein Case: A Story of Power, Crime, and Accountability

    Jeffrey Epstein was a wealthy financier whose name became globally associated with one of the most shocking criminal cases in recent memory. For years, Epstein presented himself as a successful businessman and philanthropist. He had close relationships with influential figures — from celebrities and scientists to world leaders and royalty. But behind this glamorous image was a hidden and disturbing reality.

    Epstein was accused of running a sex trafficking ring involving underage girls. According to reports, young women were recruited under the promise of money, education, or career opportunities, but were later exploited. Several victims said they were forced into abusive situations and threatened if they spoke out.

    In 2008, Epstein struck a controversial plea deal that allowed him to avoid federal charges. He served only 13 months in a private section of a county jail and was allowed to leave six days a week under a work-release program. This deal was widely criticized, especially because it was made in secret and protected others who may have been involved.

    Over a decade later, in 2019, new evidence led to his arrest on federal charges of sex trafficking. Just weeks after his arrest, Epstein was found dead in his prison cell. Although the official cause of death was suicide, many people questioned the circumstances, fueling conspiracy theories and public distrust in the justice system.

    The Epstein case is not just about one man’s crimes. It opened a much larger conversation about abuse of power, how the wealthy can sometimes escape consequences, and how important it is to protect the vulnerable. It also raised questions about the failures of the legal system and whether true accountability can exist when power and privilege are involved.

VOCABULARY

• financier – a person who controls or invests large sums of money
• The company was saved by a wealthy financier who believed in their project.

• plea deal – an agreement where the accused admits guilt for a lighter punishment
• He avoided a long sentence by accepting a plea deal.

• work-release – a prison program that allows inmates to work outside during the day
• She was granted work-release so she could continue her job.

• evidence – facts or information showing that something is true or false
• Police gathered enough evidence to reopen the case.

• exploit – to use someone unfairly for personal gain
• The young athletes were exploited by dishonest agents.

• abuse of power – when someone in authority uses their position to do wrong
• The investigation revealed a clear abuse of power in the organization.

• accountability – the state of being responsible and expected to explain actions
• Without accountability, powerful people can act without fear of punishment.

• trafficking – the illegal buying, selling, or transport of people, usually for exploitation
• The new law aims to combat human trafficking more effectively.

ACTIVITIES

1 - Choose the correct answer.

2 - True or False?

3 - Fill in the blanks using the vocabulary words/phrases.

4 - Do you think rich and powerful people are treated differently by the justice system in your country? Why or why not?