Melinda French Gates says Jeffrey Epstein ‘could have been stopped’ after Bill Gates testimony
LONDON, ENGLAND: Melinda French Gates has spoken candidly about Jeffrey Epstein, saying he "could have been stopped" and arguing that the justice system failed to do its job.
The billionaire philanthropist made the remarks in an interview published on Saturday, June 13, just days after her former husband, Microsoft co-founder Bill Gates, testified before a congressional panel about his past interactions with Epstein.
French Gates' comments arrive at a time when Epstein is once again in the headlines, with lawmakers questioning Bill Gates about his relationship with the late financier and the circumstances surrounding their association.
Melinda French Gates says justice system failed to act
During the interview, French Gates expressed frustration over how authorities handled the Epstein case.
"The justice system didn't do its job. It did not do its job. Full stop. This could have been stopped," she said.
She argued that the situation highlights the need for stronger institutions and greater accountability.
"I think that's why, finally, we are having a reckoning in society. If we don't want children to be harmed, the justice system has to work," she added.
Rather than focusing on individual figures, French Gates framed her criticism around systemic failures and the lessons society should take away from the case.
Bill Gates faced questions about Jeffrey Epstein during congressional hearing
French Gates' interview followed a closed-door House Oversight Committee hearing in which Bill Gates answered questions about Epstein.
According to his opening remarks, Gates told lawmakers that Epstein attempted to use information about his personal life, including details of extramarital relationships, as leverage.
Gates said Epstein "sought to build an image of legitimacy around himself, using connections to reputable and powerful people to deflect scrutiny and attempt to rehabilitate his reputation."
At the same time, Gates emphasized that he "never witnessed nor had any indication that Epstein was engaged in ongoing criminal conduct."
Melinda French Gates recalls unsettling meeting with Epstein
French Gates also reflected on the one time she met Epstein, describing the experience as deeply unsettling.
According to the interview, the encounter left such a strong impression on her that it resulted in nightmares afterward.
"Have you ever in your life been around somebody that you just know is evil? ... We need to listen to our feelings about people," she said.
She went on to describe Epstein in stark terms.
"He was an abhorrent human being, a horrid man, and so in these situations – this is a hard topic for me, you need to know that – my heart goes out to the young girls."
Melinda French Gates focuses on women's leadership and philanthropy
Beyond the discussion about Epstein, French Gates also spoke about her ongoing philanthropic work and her commitment to supporting women.
She recently pledged $215 million toward women's healthcare initiatives and emphasized the importance of women holding positions of influence.
"When women step into their full power, we have a different lens on society. We are the bedrock of society. We are the bedrock of the family," she said.
French Gates and Bill Gates ended their marriage in 2021 after 27 years together.
Three years later, she stepped down from the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation, saying she wanted to move into the next phase of her philanthropic journey.
