Detective Joseph Recarey

Background

Detective Joseph Recarey of the Palm Beach Police Department was the lead investigator in the original 2005-2006 criminal investigation into Jeffrey Epstein. Recarey's meticulous investigation identified dozens of potential victims and built a comprehensive case documenting Epstein's pattern of sexual abuse of minors at his Palm Beach estate.

Recarey's investigation began after a parent reported that her 14-year-old daughter had been taken to Epstein's home and paid for sexual acts. Over the course of his investigation, Recarey identified approximately 40 victims and gathered substantial physical and testimonial evidence. His work was referred to the FBI when the Palm Beach State Attorney's office pursued only a single charge despite the scope of the evidence. Recarey later testified that he faced unusual resistance and interference during his investigation, including from the State Attorney's office. Detective Recarey passed away in May 2018, shortly before Julie K. Brown's investigation brought renewed attention to the case.

Key Facts

• Lead detective in the 2005-2006 Palm Beach Police Department investigation
• Identified approximately 40 victims of Epstein's abuse
• Built comprehensive case including victim interviews and physical evidence
• Referred the case to the FBI after local prosecutors sought minimal charges
• Testified about interference and resistance during his investigation
• Passed away in May 2018 before Epstein's re-arrest

Connection to Documents

Detective Recarey appears in the archive in FBI records documenting the case referral from Palm Beach PD, in court filings referencing the original investigation, and in the police department's investigative reports. His work forms the foundation of the evidence that ultimately led to federal involvement in the case.

Related Document Categories

Related Documents in Archive(2)