Cooperating Witnesses Exposed in Epstein Files Prompt Redaction Backlash

New York Times reporting shows seven defendants listed as 'proffer at 500' in the Epstein files were involved in or seeking cooperation with prosecutors; the DOJ's initial failure to redact their names led to public exposure that could endanger them, prompting a re-upload with redactions. The episode underscores how a rushed release of the Epstein materials risked sensitive information and raises questions about the department's handling of redactions and cooperating witnesses.