The Retreat acknowledges the recent release of government records related to the crimes of Jeffrey Epstein and the widespread reports that dozens of survivors’ names and other personally identifying information were left unredacted in those files. These disclosures have caused renewed distress, forced survivors to relive their trauma, and in some cases exposed them to online harassment and safety risks.
Federal law and practice recognize that survivors of sexual abuse are entitled to privacy and protections that safeguard their dignity and physical safety throughout the justice process, including the handling and release of official records. Under the Crime Victims’ Rights Act (CVRA), survivors are entitled to protection from retaliation and harm, and Justice Department guidelines direct officials to exercise their best efforts to withhold personally identifiable information and other sensitive data when documents are placed in the public record.
In contrast to these standards, this recent disclosure left unredacted information that can identify living individuals who suffered harm, compounding the trauma they have already endured. This outcome highlights a profound failure to uphold both legal and ethical obligations to victims and survivors.
At The Retreat, we know from decades of direct service and trauma-informed practice that safety, privacy, and control over one’s own story are essential to healing. Exposing survivor identities or other private information without consent or protection undermines trust in justice systems and can retraumatize individuals who have already experienced harm.
We urge federal authorities to review all released materials immediately, complete a lawful and trauma-informed redaction process, and implement safeguards that ensure survivors are not re-victimized by institutional practices. We stand with every survivor whose privacy has been compromised and will continue to advocate for systems that prioritize human dignity, safety, and accountability.
The Retreat remains committed to the values of survivor-centered justice and to educating our community about the importance of rights, protections, and ethical standards for all those who have endured exploitation and abuse.
— The Retreat
