Microsoft co-founder Bill Gates has vehemently denied his involvement in the newly released Jeffrey Epstein files which made a series of contentious claims regarding him.
In emails released as part of the 3 million newly released documents by the Department of Justice (DOJ), Epstein claimed that Gates had caught a sexually transmitted disease (STD) after engaging in sex with a Russian women.
The documents also claimed that he tried to hide this from his then-wife Melinda Gates in 2013, obtained antibiotics to treat the infection and even slipped the medicines on to Melinda.
Epstein reportedly claimed he had sensitive information he could use it as leverage, particularly in a public divorce that might hurt Gates’ reputation in philanthropy, the newly released documents have revealed.
‘Absolutely absurd and completely false’
Issuing a rare statement, Gates’ spokesperson told Daily Mail that the claims were “absolutely absurd and completely false”.
“The only thing these documents demonstrate is Epstein’s frustration that he did not have an ongoing relationship with Gates and the lengths he would go to entrap and defame,” the spokesperson added.
Gates had previously said he regrets being friends with the late paedophile, who died in a New York City jail in 2019, but he has always denied any wrongdoing.
‘Did not have a business relationship with Epstein’
Over the years, Gates has sought to downplay his ties with Epstein, claiming the pair did not have a ‘business relationship or friendship’ and alleging all of their meetings were in group settings. He also previously denied attending any of Epstein’s parties or going to his various residences, Daily Mail reported.
Who else has been named in Epstein’s newly released files?
A number of prominent names have appeared in the newly released files. These include New York Giants co‑owner Steve Tisch and acclaimed filmmaker Mira Nair, who appeared in emails related to a 2009 event linked to Epstein associate Ghislaine Maxwell. The disclosures also include records about Epstein’s broader circle and alleged associates such as Jean‑Luc Brunel and others involved in his network.