Question
Did Bill Gates know about Epstein’s crimes when he met with him?
Answer
Bill Gates met with Jeffrey Epstein on multiple documented occasions between approximately 2011 and 2014 — after Epstein’s 2008 conviction as a registered sex offender. The meetings took place at Epstein’s New York townhouse and involved discussions described by Gates as related to philanthropic initiatives.
What Gates has said: Gates has acknowledged the meetings and stated that he “made a mistake” in engaging with Epstein. In a 2023 interview, he acknowledged meeting with Epstein to discuss charity funding but maintained he had no knowledge of the full scope of Epstein’s criminal conduct.
What the meetings produced: According to reporting, Epstein attempted to help Gates access philanthropic channels and facilitate introductions, particularly related to the Gates Foundation’s global health work. The meetings produced no significant funding relationship, and Gates did not incorporate Epstein into his philanthropic network.
What remains disputed:
- Whether Gates had sufficient knowledge of Epstein’s 2008 conviction and what it entailed before agreeing to meetings
- Gates’ ex-wife Melinda Gates reportedly expressed concern about the Epstein relationship before their divorce
What is clear:
- The meetings occurred post-conviction
- Epstein used these meetings as social validation
- Gates ultimately had no significant professional engagement with Epstein
No evidence has established that Gates had knowledge of ongoing criminal conduct during their meeting period.
Sources
- The New York Times reporting on Gates-Epstein meetings (2019)
- Gates Foundation communications
- Gates media interviews (2023)