From BBC News · · 1m 20s
House holds billionaire Leon Black in contempt over Epstein probe
The Apollo co-founder defied a subpoena to testify about his ties to the convicted sex offender.
In brief
The Apollo co-founder defied a subpoena to testify about his ties to the convicted sex offender. Leon Black faces potential criminal prosecution for refusing to comply with a congressional subpoena about his relationship with Jeffrey Epstein. Originally reported by BBC News.
Black held in contempt
The House voted to hold billionaire Leon Black in contempt for defying a subpoena related to Jeffrey Epstein. He refused to appear before the Oversight Committee.
“No-one is above the law. We will continue to seek transparency for the American people and justice for survivors.”
Black's lawyers call it outrageous
Black's legal team said the contempt vote ignores active litigation challenging the committee's actions. They also cited an ethics complaint against Chairman Comer.
Justice Department gets the case
The measure passed by unanimous consent. The matter now goes to the Justice Department, which will decide whether to criminally prosecute Black.
He walked out in June
Black left voluntary testimony before the committee in June after being asked about nondisclosure agreements. The subpoenas were issued after he walked out.
Black left Apollo over Epstein ties
The private equity tycoon left Apollo Global Management in 2021 amid scrutiny over his Epstein connections. He has denied any wrongdoing.
Black paid Epstein $158 million
Black told lawmakers he hired Epstein as a wealth adviser and paid him $158 million for legitimate reasons. He says he didn't know about Epstein's crimes until 2019.
What it means
Leon Black faces potential criminal prosecution for refusing to comply with a congressional subpoena about his relationship with Jeffrey Epstein.
