Epstein's former assistant testifies before US House committee, alleges years of abuse

Sarah Kellen, a former assistant to American financier Jeffrey Epstein, appeared before the U.S. House Oversight Committee and accused him of sexual abuse spanning several years. Kellen testified that Epstein raped her and subjected her to physical, psychological and coercive control. She told the committee she was initially offered work in the modeling industry before falling under Epstein's influence and pressure. She said she was sexually abused while working for both Epstein and his former partner Ghislaine Maxwell, with incidents occurring at various locations. Kellen alleged that one of the most severe incidents took place at a sports club in Palm Beach, Florida. Kellen also claimed that during Epstein's 2008 detention, he contacted her via Skype and forced her to perform degrading acts in front of the camera. She described years of sustained abuse while in his control. The testimony comes as federal prosecutors continue investigating Epstein's activities following his 2019 death while in federal custody.