Newly Discovered Image Links Howard Lutnick to Jeffrey Epstein

A recently discovered image allegedly shows Howard Lutnick walking behind Jeffrey Epstein on Little St James island, raising questions about their relationship. This photo, found in a cache of Epstein's files, was not included in the DOJ's official release. Lutnick has faced scrutiny for inconsistent statements regarding his interactions with Epstein, with emails revealing ongoing communication long after Epstein's conviction. The DOJ has stated that the image was flagged for review but will be made public once the redaction process is complete. This revelation adds another layer to the ongoing scrutiny of Lutnick's conduct and his connections to Epstein.

By Narendra Chaudhary Feb 27, 2026, 05:10 IST

Unveiling the Controversial Image

An image allegedly depicting Howard Lutnick walking behind Jeffrey Epstein on Little St James island has emerged online, discovered by tech workers who found it in a downloaded cache of the Epstein Files. This particular photo is absent from the official releases by the US Department of Justice. It originated from a project called 'jmail,' initiated by two independent tech workers who downloaded the complete set of newly released emails and attachments from Epstein’s inbox, creating a searchable archive where they located the image labeled EFTA01230639. This file name did not correspond with any documents on the DOJ’s official site, indicating it was not included in the main release.

A representative from the DOJ confirmed that the image was part of a larger batch flagged for nudity and set aside for further review. They clarified that while files are being uploaded with necessary redactions, 'no files are being deleted.' The official did not dispute the presence of Lutnick in the image, as reported by a news outlet.

At 64, Lutnick has faced criticism for his contradictory statements regarding his interactions with Epstein. In a prior interview on a podcast supportive of Donald Trump, he claimed to have met Epstein only once in 2005 after moving next door, asserting that he severed all ties that same year. However, emails released by the DOJ revealed ongoing communication between the two, including arrangements for lunches, phone calls, and visits long after Epstein’s 2008 conviction for soliciting a minor.

Details Surrounding the Image

What Is Known About The Image?

The photo captures Epstein walking ahead of Lutnick on Little St James, an island where numerous victims have alleged they were sexually abused. Public records have already established that Lutnick visited the island with his family and nannies, describing the occasion as a picnic. This newly surfaced image provides further evidence of his documented interactions with Epstein.

The absence of this image from the DOJ’s public release raised eyebrows when users of jmail discovered it in the downloadable archives. The DOJ explained that this omission was due to a temporary hold related to redaction processes. They assured that the reviewed images would be made available online once the review is finalized.

According to reports, Lutnick has created friction among departments by insisting that his staff seek his personal approval before engaging with other agencies. One official noted that Commerce staff often attend interagency meetings without the ability to share their positions or information due to internal restrictions. Additionally, reports indicated that Lutnick often involved himself in discussions outside his expertise, sometimes raising his voice over colleagues who disagreed. Sources revealed that President Trump confronted Lutnick, not regarding the Epstein-related material, but due to his disruptive behavior towards staff in other departments.

As of now, the Trump administration has not released any official comments concerning the image or Lutnick’s conduct within the agency.