Newly released US Department of Justice emails suggest Jeffrey Epstein explored investing in music giant EMI after an associate implied the industry could provide access to women.
In correspondence made public by the DOJ, London-based businessman David Stern forwards Epstein a news article about EMI’s financial troubles in 2010, describing the “troubled industry” as “related to P” a term Epstein allegedly used to refer to women. For birthdays and holidays, Stern reportedly wished him “lots of P” and rated social events with a so-called “P factor.”
EMI, once one of the music industry’s biggest players, was later broken up and sold to Universal Music Group and a consortium including Sony Music Entertainment in 2012 after lender Citigroup took control.
In one exchange, Epstein appears to ask whether political support might be needed, referencing Lord Mandelson, who was serving as the UK’s First Secretary of State and Business Secretary at the time. Emails show Mandelson replying to a message about EMI, though the identity of a referenced contact named “Ben” remains unclear.
Epstein also suggests bringing in former Sony executive Tommy Mottola to oversee a potential turnaround, writing that he would like him “to be brought in to fix it.” Mottola’s name appears hundreds of times in the DOJ files, though inclusion does not indicate wrongdoing.
The proposed investment never materialises. In 2011, discussions within Epstein’s circle reference a possible syndicate bid involving private equity firm KKR, but no deal follows.
The files also detail separate, unrealised discussions about acquiring model agencies and fashion-related businesses. French authorities have previously investigated allegations that Epstein associate Jean-Luc Brunel helped recruit and transport young women, claims long denied by those involved.
The emails offer fresh insight into how Epstein and his network discussed business opportunities, including apparent efforts to link investments with access to women.
Erizia Rubyjeana
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