American prosecutors have demanded not to release the girlfriend of the financier Jeffrey Epstein, Gilaine Maxwell, who is accused of sex crimes, even on bail of $ 28.5 million, according to a petition filed with the court.
According to the prosecution, Maxwell possesses large financial means that can help her escape from justice, and the evidence against her is serious.
“In general, there is an exceptional risk of the defendant’s escape, and no conditions or their combination can ensure her appearance in court in this district, and the court should not change its previous decision in this regard,” the RIA Novosti document quotes.
The British woman, who is in prison in New York, was charged with six counts, including conspiracy with Epstein to sexually exploit minors. As stated in the indictment, since 1994, she helped the financier “prepare” girls aged 14 and older for this. In addition, Maxwell is accused of knowingly giving false testimony. She declared innocent of the charges against her. Maxwell faces up to 35 years in prison.
This week, the 58-year-old British socialite offered a $ 28.5 million bond guarantee, The Gardien reported. In particular, she is ready to pledge all her property and the property of friends and relatives. The court had previously refused to release her on $ 5 million bail.
Financier Jeffrey Epstein committed suicide in a New York City Correctional Center in August 2019. A few months earlier, he had been arrested on charges of organizing the sex trade and involving minors in prostitution.