Published: 20 February 2026, The English Chronicle Desk, The English Chronicle Online
New Mexico officials have announced the reopening of a criminal investigation into alleged illegal activity at the infamous Zorro Ranch, a property once owned by disgraced financier Jeffrey Epstein. The move comes after newly unsealed government files prompting renewed scrutiny of what may have occurred on the sprawling estate near Stanley, New Mexico.
Attorney General Raúl Torrez confirmed that the decision to revive the probe was based on “revelations outlined in the previously sealed FBI files” released last month by the U.S. Department of Justice. Those documents — part of millions disclosed due to federal transparency laws — have shed fresh light on the scope of Epstein’s activities and raised questions about prior investigative decisions.
New Mexico’s original investigation into allegations tied to the ranch was closed in 2019 at the request of federal prosecutors in New York, around the same time Epstein was arrested and later died in custody. At that time, prosecutors interviewed possible victims who visited the property but did not pursue further charges in the state.
In reopening the inquiry, the New Mexico Department of Justice said special agents and prosecutors will seek access to complete, unredacted federal case files and work collaboratively with other law enforcement partners. Officials also plan to coordinate with a truth commission recently established by state lawmakers to investigate what may have occurred at the ranch.
The truth commission, composed of state House representatives, is tasked with examining allegations that the ranch may have been a site of sexual abuse or sex trafficking. Lawmakers have emphasized the need to understand why Epstein was not registered as a sex offender in New Mexico after his 2008 conviction in Florida and to examine whether misconduct by public officials might have hindered earlier scrutiny.
Epstein purchased the ranch in 1993 and maintained it throughout his life. The property features a large hilltop mansion, a private runway, and extensive grounds. It was sold in 2023 to a private buyer who renamed it San Rafael Ranch and indicated cooperation with authorities if approached for investigative access.
The reopening of the criminal inquiry has reignited public interest and concern, especially among survivors and advocacy groups who say they want transparency and accountability. Critics have for years argued that the full story of Epstein’s activities, especially in New Mexico, has never been fully uncovered.
The English Chronicle will continue to follow this developing story, tracking legal developments, official statements, and public reaction as the renewed investigation unfolds.


























































































