New Mexico investigators search Epstein's former ranch

Investigators in New Mexico began searching on Monday the former high-plains ranch of Jeffrey Epstein where the late financier and his acquaintances are accused of sexually abusing women and girls.



Democratic-run New Mexico is acting on new information in documents released in ⁠January by the U.S. Department of Justice, including an accusation that Epstein ordered the bodies of two foreign girls buried in hills near the secluded property.



The search follows New Mexico Attorney General Raul Torrez's decision last month to reopen the investigation into the late sex offender's alleged criminal activities at the ranch 48 km south of the state's capital of Santa Fe.



On Monday, a Reuters witness heard dogs barking and saw a government vehicle bearing a paw-print symbol, suggesting it was carrying animals, leave the ranch. State police and a county fire and rescue vehicle were also spotted.