Bill Gates and Jeffrey Epstein: Melinda Gates reportedly began talking to divorce lawyers due to her concerns over her husband’s dealings with Jeffrey Epstein, a convicted sex offender. Epstein committed suicide in prison.
According to the Wall Street Journal, Melinda French Gates reportedly began consulting divorce lawyers in October 2019. This is well over a year before the announcement of the couple’s separation last week.
Melinda started to speak with several attorneys from several firms and said that their marriage was “irretrievably broken”. The 56-year old’s concerns with Bill’s ties to Epstein have existed for a long time. The Wall Street Journal stated that her unease dates back to at least 2013.
Jeffrey Epstein was an American financier who was convicted for sex trafficking and procuring underage girls for prostitution. He died of suicide in prison while he was awaiting trial on federal charges against his crimes.
Jeffrey Epstein had lured many powerful and rich men into his circle. This included people from politics, the royal family, and billionaires. It was reported by the New York Times back in October 2019 that Bill Gates and Jeffrey Epstein had met several times. It was also mentioned that Gates had even stayed over at Epstein’s New York townhouse.
At the time, the report was addressed by a spokeswoman for Microsoft Corporation who said that the meetings between the two men were strictly centered on philanthropy. Gates also denied the rumours and said that he did not have any business relationship or friendship with Epstein.
The divorce between Bill and Melinda Gates was announced last week after 27 years of their marriage. The separation involves legal terms and working with lawyers and attorneys to divide their fortunes. Despite the separation, the couple said that they still plan to work together for a good cause. The couple will also remain as co-chairs and trustees of the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation.