The Contact Book
Jeffrey Epstein maintained a physical contact book that contained approximately 1,000 entries names, phone numbers, and addresses of people he knew or had contact with. The book was pilfered by a former Epstein employee and eventually obtained by journalist Nick Bryant.
Publication in 2011
Nick Bryant published the contents of the book via Gawker Media in 2011. The publication was accompanied by analysis of the remarkable range of names it contained.
Who Was In It
The book included current and former presidents, royals, prominent scientists, financiers, celebrities, models, attorneys, and others. The presence of someone in the book indicates they were in Epstein’s contact sphere, which does not by itself imply any wrongdoing.
Multiple Numbers Per Entry
Many entries in the book included multiple numbers home, office, private mobile indicating relationships of some substantive depth. A casual acquaintance typically has only one contact number.
Significance as Evidence
The black book became evidence in various legal proceedings. It was used to map the reaches of Epstein’s network and to identify potential witnesses. Attorneys for victims used it to document the range of individuals who might have information.
The Duplication Issue
Some names appeared with both personal and assistant numbers, and some entries were clearly referral contacts rather than close associates. Analysis of the book requires careful interpretation.