Bank of America to pay out $72.5m over Epstein lawsuit

March 28, 2026

Bank of America has agreed to pay $72. 5 million to settle a class-action lawsuit filed by victims of Jeffrey Epstein's sex trafficking operation. The suit, brought by a Florida woman who claims Epstein abused her approximately 100 times between 2011 and 2019, alleged that the bank ignored evidence of trafficking activities in favor of profits while managing accounts connected to Epstein.

Who is affected

Victims of Jeffrey Epstein's sex trafficking operation, specifically those in the class-action lawsuit
A Florida woman identified as "Jane Doe" who brought the lawsuit and claims abuse on at least 100 occasions between 2011 and 2019
Bank of America (financially impacted by the $72.5 million settlement)
Billionaire Leon Black, co-founder of Apollo Global, who was questioned as part of the case

What action is being taken

The settlement documents are awaiting a judge's approval in federal court in New York.

Why it matters

This settlement represents significant accountability for financial institutions that allegedly enabled Epstein's criminal activities, providing some measure of justice and financial compensation for trafficking victims. It establishes a pattern of major banks being held financially responsible for their business relationships with Epstein, following similar settlements totaling $365 million from JP Morgan Chase and Deutsche Bank. The case highlights the responsibility of financial institutions to monitor suspicious activity and protect vulnerable individuals rather than prioritizing profits.

What's next

The settlement awaits approval from a federal judge in New York.

Read full article from source: BBC