Newly released records reveal Dallas-based crisis communications consultant Merrie Spaeth maintained contact with convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein for years after his 2008 guilty plea, despite previous statements indicating she ended their professional relationship due to “discomfort.”
The documents include messages from Spaeth offering support to Epstein, including a July 2011 message sent through his assistant stating, “I just wanted to touch base and make sure you were feeling more secure…You know you can always call on us.” A 2015 message, directed to Epstein through a redacted recipient, read: “We’re here if you want help. We think the world of you.”
Past Links
These records appear to contradict earlier assertions by public figures regarding the extent of their contact with Epstein. Bloomberg News reported last year that Epstein’s legal team engaged Spaeth in 2008 to assist with public relations, including drafting potential apologies and preparing him for interviews concerning allegations of abuse.
Spaeth acknowledged her firm’s engagement with Epstein’s legal counsel in 2008, but stated she “ultimately terminated the engagement because of my discomfort with it.” However, the newly released documents demonstrate that contact did not cease entirely.
Contact Maintained
Following Epstein’s 2008 guilty plea to state charges, including procurement of a minor for prostitution, Spaeth continued to reach out to him. Records show a payment of approximately $51,000 to Spaeth’s company around 2009-2010. After a mid-2011 outreach, messages indicate a planned phone call, though whether it occurred remains unclear.
In 2015, Spaeth again contacted Epstein through a redacted recipient, offering assistance with ongoing publicity. She wrote, “If this is still a good email, could you let Jeffrey know that we’re here if he wants help…My email and cell phone remain the same.” Epstein reportedly responded he would call.
Frequently Asked Questions
What work did Merrie Spaeth initially do for Jeffrey Epstein?
Spaeth’s company was engaged in 2008 to “provide communications options” for Epstein and his legal team, including drafting potential public apologies and preparing him for interviews.
Did Spaeth acknowledge any regret regarding her involvement with Epstein?
Spaeth stated she is “embarrassed” by her involvement with Epstein, including the follow-up communications, given the scope of his “egregious actions.”
What happened to Epstein after his initial conviction?
Epstein served less than 13 months in a minimum-security facility and was released in 2009. He was later arrested in 2019 on federal sex trafficking charges and died in jail the following month.
What implications might these newly released records have for other individuals connected to Epstein?
