In a disturbing turn of events revealed by the latest Epstein files, a former trainee lawyer from Clifford Chance’s Paris office has been identified as both a victim and a recruiter for the late sex trafficker Jeffrey Epstein. The files, which include a series of emails exchanged between the lawyer, referred to only as "V," and Epstein, highlight a complex relationship that evolved over years.

Clifford Chance has stated, "The firm has never acted for Epstein. The correspondence is not related to the business of the firm.” Meanwhile, representatives from Boies Schiller Flexner, speaking on behalf of the woman, have confirmed that she was indeed a victim of Epstein and a survivor of abuse.

The emails provide a window into how Epstein groomed V from a young attorney eager to learn, to a participant in his global trafficking network. Initially, V seemed impressed by Epstein, mentioning in 2011 that she admired his passion for young girls and expressing excitement about traveling with him and attending luxurious events.

However, the situation took a darker turn as Epstein had V draft a sex contract, providing feedback on its details, thus integrating himself into her professional life. He even influenced her academic aspirations, advising her on applications to U.S. law schools.

As time passed, the emails depict V’s transformation under Epstein’s manipulation. She started recruiting other young women for him, selecting candidates based on their looks and intelligence. By 2013, she communicated regularly about providing Epstein with “beautiful and interesting” recruits, and by 2017, she was seemingly managing a roster of young women, ensuring they met Epstein’s criteria.

Despite her entanglement in Epstein's schemes, V continued her legal studies in the U.S., financed by Epstein, who reminded her of her "obligations" under their agreement.

The correspondence between V and Epstein continued until mid-2019, just months before Epstein's arrest on child sex charges, with V thanking him for the impact he had on her life.

This case highlights not only the vast reach of Epstein’s criminal activities but also the complex dynamics of control and victimization that characterized his interactions with those around him. It raises profound questions about vulnerability and manipulation, even among those who seem the most professionally promising.