A survivor of Jeffrey Epstein’s abuse is calling for the complete release of documents related to the financier’s crimes, stating that transparency is essential for accountability and personal closure. Marina Lacerda, who recently decided to speak publicly about her experiences, described the ongoing suppression of files as a barrier to justice.
Lacerda, now 37, was first exploited by Epstein at the age of 14. Recruited under the guise of providing massages, she soon found herself in abusive situations that escalated over several years. She recounted how Epstein leveraged her family’s immigration and financial struggles to maintain control, creating an environment of fear and coercion.
“He made it clear he had influence everywhere—in government, in finance,” Lacerda said. “That intimidation kept us silent.” She also described being pressured to recruit other young women, with Epstein using the threat of withheld legal assistance as leverage.
The abuse only ceased when Lacerda turned 17, at which point Epstein dismissed her as “no longer fun.” Years later, she became a key witness in the criminal investigation, though a controversial plea agreement initially prevented her testimony.
Recent developments have seen thousands of pages of documents released, yet many files remain withheld. Lacerda expressed frustration that the issue has become politicized, with figures in power delaying full disclosure. “We’re not interested in blame,” she emphasized. “We want the truth to come out so that everyone responsible can be held accountable—and so survivors can find closure.”
Lacerda’s decision to break her silence was partly inspired by fellow survivor Virginia Giuffre, who died earlier this year. “She paved the way,” Lacerda noted. “Now it’s up to us to continue her work.”
As legislative efforts to release the remaining documents advance, Lacerda and other survivors continue to advocate for transparency, hoping that full disclosure will bring not only legal consequences but also a measure of peace.
