FBI-DOJ Coordination: Epstein Arrest at Teterboro

FBI-DOJ COORDINATION MEMORANDUM — 2019 ARREST OPERATION FEDERAL BUREAU OF INVESTIGATION / DEPARTMENT OF JUSTICE This internal coordination memorandum documents the planning and execution of the operation to arrest Jeffrey Epstein on July 6, 2019, upon his return to the United States via private aircraft at Teterboro Airport in New Jersey. The memorandum reflects joint planning between the FBI New York Field Office, the U.S. Attorney's Office for the Southern District of New York, and senior officials at the Department of Justice. OPERATIONAL PLANNING: The memorandum outlines the operational plan developed for Epstein's arrest, including surveillance protocols, arrest team assignments, and contingency procedures. FBI agents coordinated with airport authorities at Teterboro to ensure the arrest could be executed safely upon Epstein's arrival from Paris, France. The plan included provisions for securing Epstein's aircraft and any accompanying individuals, as well as the immediate processing and transport of the defendant to the SDNY for arraignment. INDICTMENT AND CHARGES: The memorandum references the sealed indictment filed in the Southern District of New York charging Jeffrey Epstein with sex trafficking of minors and conspiracy to engage in sex trafficking, in violation of 18 U.S.C. sections 1591 and 1594. The charges covered conduct occurring between 2002 and 2005 at the New York and Palm Beach residences, representing a new prosecution distinct from the earlier Southern District of Florida case. COORDINATION WITH DOJ LEADERSHIP: The memorandum documents communications between the SDNY and Department of Justice leadership regarding the prosecution. The SDNY, operating under its tradition of independence, had developed the case through its Public Corruption Unit. The document reflects that DOJ officials were briefed on the charges and the planned arrest but that the prosecutorial decisions were made by the SDNY. SEARCH WARRANT COORDINATION: The memorandum also addresses the simultaneous planning for the execution of search warrants at Epstein's New York townhouse at 9 East 71st Street, to be carried out immediately following the arrest. This coordinated approach was designed to prevent the destruction of evidence. Source: Internal DOJ/FBI Records; referenced in USA v. Epstein, Case No. 19-cr-490 (S.D.N.Y.)