IG Final Report: MCC Epstein Death Investigation (June 2023)

DOJ INSPECTOR GENERAL REPORT — MCC INVESTIGATION The DOJ Inspector General conducted a comprehensive investigation into the circumstances surrounding Jeffrey Epstein's death at the Metropolitan Correctional Center. KEY FINDINGS: 1. Systemic failures in BOP operations at MCC 2. Chronic understaffing contributed to security lapses 3. Guards assigned to Epstein's unit were not performing required rounds 4. Surveillance system failures were not promptly addressed 5. Suicide prevention protocols were inadequately implemented 6. Removal from suicide watch lacked proper documentation and justification SPECIFIC FAILURES: - Two staff members assigned to Epstein's unit on the night of August 9-10 failed to conduct any of the required checks - Both staff members admitted to sleeping during their shift - A management decision was made to house Epstein alone despite the requirement for a cellmate - No adequate explanation for the removal from suicide watch after only six days SYSTEMIC ISSUES: - MCC was operating at 40% of required staffing levels - Mandatory overtime led to exhaustion - Training requirements were not being met - Physical facility was in severe disrepair The IG report supported the subsequent decision to close MCC in 2021. Source: DOJ Inspector General Available at: https://www.justice.gov/epstein/doj-disclosures