Short Answer
The July 2019 SDNY indictment charged Epstein with two counts: Count One, conspiracy to commit sex trafficking of minors, and Count Two, sex trafficking of minors. Both counts stemmed from conduct at his Palm Beach and Manhattan properties between approximately 2002 and 2005.
In Detail
The superseding indictment unsealed by SDNY prosecutors on July 8, 2019 was deliberately focused and narrowly drawn, based on conduct in New York and Florida that federal prosecutors in New York assessed as their strongest available charges given double jeopardy and statute of limitations considerations.
Count One: Conspiracy to Commit Sex Trafficking of Minors
This count charged Epstein with entering into an agreement with others — his “coconspirators,” unnamed in the indictment — to engage in the sex trafficking of minors. The count covered the period from approximately 2002 through 2005. The conspiracy charge allowed prosecutors to encompass the organized network of recruiters, managers, and assistants in the offense.
Count Two: Sex Trafficking of Minors
This count charged Epstein with substantive sex trafficking of minors, again covering the 2002-2005 timeframe. The charge fell under 18 U.S.C. § 1591, the federal sex trafficking statute, which carries severe penalties.
Potential Sentence
If convicted on both counts, Epstein faced a maximum of 45 years in federal prison. Prosecutors argued he should be detained pending trial and opposed bail, citing his resources and access to private aircraft.
The 2008 NPA’s Impact
The 2008 NPA was an obstacle to a broader indictment. It had provided immunity for the specific Florida conduct. The SDNY built its case on New York conduct and the argument that the NPA’s immunity did not extend to the SDNY’s jurisdiction or to the specific acts covered in the new indictment.
Epstein’s Death
Epstein died on August 10, 2019, before trial. His death resulted in the dismissal of the indictment. The conspiracy charge’s evidentiary record, however, was used extensively in the Maxwell prosecution.