Zorro Ranch Background
Jeffrey Epstein owned the Zorro Ranch, a 10,000-acre property near Stanley, New Mexico, which served as one of his primary residences and entertainment venues. The property included:
- A main residence described as a palatial compound
- A private airstrip
- Guest accommodations
- Various outbuildings and facilities
Labor Investigation Background
New Mexico authorities conducted investigations into Epstein’s ranch operations, focusing on:
- Employment practices for domestic and groundskeeping staff
- Immigration status of workers
- Wage and hour compliance
- Worker housing conditions
New Mexico State Investigation
Following Epstein’s 2019 arrest, the New Mexico Attorney General’s Office launched an investigation into whether sex trafficking had occurred on the Zorro Ranch property. The investigation sought to determine:
- Whether any victims were brought to New Mexico against their will
- Whether trafficking activities occurred on the property
- Whether New Mexico officials had been aware of and failed to address Epstein’s activities
Trafficking at the Ranch
Several Epstein victims described being brought to the Zorro Ranch, where Epstein hosted:
- Science and intellectual gatherings with prominent academics
- Private encounters with victims
- Social events with political and business figures
Virginia Giuffre described visiting the New Mexico ranch as part of what she described as her trafficking.
The Ranch After Epstein’s Death
Zorro Ranch was part of Epstein’s estate, valued at approximately $20–30 million. Following Epstein’s death, the estate became subject to legal proceedings. The State of New Mexico pursued civil action against the estate related to alleged trafficking activities.
In 2024, the Zorro Ranch was sold as part of the estate liquidation process.