Judge Allows Epstein Advisers to Face Sex Trafficking Lawsuit

A U.S. judge has ruled that two advisers to the late Jeffrey Epstein, Darren Indyke and Richard Kahn, can be sued by victims for allegedly aiding Epstein's sex trafficking crimes. The judge rejected their attempts to dismiss the class action suit, although it is currently on hold due to release agreements signed by some plaintiffs.

A U.S. judge has ruled that two advisers to the late Jeffrey Epstein can be sued by victims who claim they were involved in Epstein's sex trafficking activities. The decision targets Epstein's former lawyer Darren Indyke and ex-accountant Richard Kahn.

U.S. District Judge Arun Subramanian in Manhattan turned down arguments from Indyke and Kahn stating that victims couldn't pursue a class action due to prior settlement agreements with Epstein's estate. Nevertheless, the judge paused the proposed class action because the release signed by lead plaintiff Danielle Bensky included her claims against Indyke and Kahn.

Bensky, once an aspiring dancer recruited by Epstein in 2004, and another plaintiff, Jane Doe 3, are allowed to advance parts of their claims with future class certification possible. Defendants' representatives refute any knowledge or involvement in Epstein's crimes. The cases are ongoing in the U.S. District Court, Southern District of New York.

(With inputs from agencies.)