Epstein Acquires Manhattan Townhouse from Wexner — 1989
Jeffrey Epstein acquires the nine-story Manhattan townhouse at 9 East 71st Street from Leslie Wexner for well below its appraised value. The transaction — in which Wexner transferred what would become New York City's largest private residence to Epstein — remains one of the most scrutinized financial dealings in the case.
People Involved
Around 1989, Leslie Wexner transferred ownership of his nine-story Manhattan townhouse at 9 East 71st Street to Jeffrey Epstein. The transfer price was reportedly well below market value.
The Property
The townhouse, located steps from Central Park on the Upper East Side, is one of the largest private residences in New York City. It spans approximately 21,000 square feet across nine floors and had been purchased by Wexner for $13.2 million in 1989, according to property records. The transfer to Epstein reportedly occurred at a fraction of that value.
Power of Attorney
Wexner had granted Epstein an extraordinarily broad power of attorney that allowed him to acquire, manage, and dispose of assets on Wexner’s behalf. Whether the townhouse transfer was a deliberate gift, compensation for services, or something else remains unclear. Wexner later claimed he had been defrauded.
Renovations
After taking ownership, Epstein commissioned extensive renovations, outfitting the property with elaborate features that would later be described by investigators and journalists as evidence of the abuse that occurred there. The property was where many victims reported being abused.
Significance
The acquisition of the townhouse represented a critical step in Epstein’s ability to project wealth and social status in New York. The relationship between Wexner and Epstein — and how it enabled Epstein’s entire lifestyle — would remain one of the enduring mysteries of the scandal.