• US Justice Department uncovers over one million additional Epstein-related documents.
• This discovery delays the release of files mandated by Congress.
• Approximately 130,000 pages have been released so far, many heavily redacted.
• Law enforcement is under scrutiny for the timeliness and transparency of the document review process.
• Key lawmakers are demanding accountability regarding the handling of these documents.

The US Justice Department announced on Wednesday that it has uncovered over one million additional documents potentially linked to the investigation of convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein. This finding significantly increases the volume of materials previously known and extends the timeline for their public release, according to the Justice Department.Source, Source, and Source.

Initially, under a recently passed Epstein Files Transparency Act, the Justice Department was required to disclose most documents related to Epstein by last Friday. Following recent releases, which totaled about 130,000 pages of material, many of these documents featured extensive redactions, raising concerns among lawmakers about transparency and accountability in the process. However, the new findings have necessitated greater scrutiny and a lengthier review, potentially taking "a few more weeks," according to officials.Source, Source, and Source.

The discovery was announced shortly after senators from both parties urged the Justice Department's inspector general to assess its compliance with the law mandating full disclosure. Lawmakers expressed frustration over the government's handling of the investigation, emphasizing that victims deserve full transparency regarding the documents and the investigation's findings.Source and Source.

Prior to this announcement, the DOJ had indicated that there would be a comprehensive review of all Epstein-related materials. Nevertheless, the sudden emergence of such a large cache of documents has shocked many observers, raising questions about the thoroughness of earlier reviews and the transparency of the Justice Department under the Trump administration.Source, Source, and Source.