Microsoft co-founder Bill Gates has remained silent when directly questioned about newly released files related to convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein that reportedly mention his name. The billionaire was approached by media outside the Ritz-Carlton hotel in Melbourne on Saturday as he made his way to the Australian Open tennis tournament.
Confrontation in Melbourne
When asked specifically about the Epstein documents that referenced him, Gates offered no response and walked away without making any statement. One of his team members attempted to block cameras as the billionaire departed the scene without addressing the allegations.
Email Allegations in Epstein Files
The confrontation occurred as the latest collection of files related to the late Jeffrey Epstein were released to the public. Among more than three million pages of documents is a 2013 draft email from an account linked to Epstein that makes serious allegations about Gates.
The email claims Gates had participated in activities ranging from "morally inappropriate" to "ethically unsound" and potentially illegal. Specifically, it alleges assistance with obtaining drugs following encounters with Russian girls and facilitating illicit relationships with married women.
Gates' Response to Allegations
A spokesperson for Bill Gates has categorically denied all claims made about him in the Epstein files, describing them as "absolutely absurd and completely false." The spokesperson suggested the documents demonstrate Epstein's frustration at not having an ongoing relationship with Gates and his attempts to entrap and defame the billionaire.
Gates has previously acknowledged meeting Epstein on several occasions, describing these encounters as focused on philanthropic discussions. He has expressed regret about these meetings, calling them a "huge mistake" after realizing Epstein's promises about generating billions for global health through his contacts were not genuine.
Royal Connections in Epstein Documents
The released files also contain references to former British prince Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor, who appears in email exchanges from 2002. In these communications, disgraced socialite Ghislaine Maxwell discusses Andrew's potential visit to Epstein's private island, mentioning "5 stunning red heads" who would be present.
The email correspondence suggests Andrew considered spending time with his then-wife Sarah and their children instead of making the trip. Maxwell's responses indicate understanding of his decision while making references to the alternative entertainment available on the island.
Ongoing Royal Scrutiny
Andrew has faced persistent allegations of sexual assault involving Virginia Giuffre, who claims she was trafficked by Epstein. The former prince has strenuously denied these accusations, though he paid millions to settle a civil sexual assault claim in 2022. His association with Epstein led to his removal from royal duties in 2019 and the subsequent stripping of his HRH style and prince title by King Charles.
Jeffrey Epstein was found dead in his Manhattan jail cell in August 2019 while awaiting trial on sex trafficking charges, with authorities ruling his death a suicide. The continued release of documents from his estate maintains public and legal scrutiny on his extensive network of associates.
