Epstein Survivor Advocates for Change After Traumatic Assault

Jess Michaels, a survivor of convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein, is using her experience to advocate for change in the aftermath of her traumatic assault. In 1991, Epstein raped Michaels, an event that deeply affected her sense of safety, career trajectory, and overall health. Recently, she joined a group of survivors rallying in Washington, D.C., urging lawmakers to pass legislation that would release the Epstein Files, aiming for transparency and accountability.

In the early 1990s, Michaels was a successful dancer when a trusted friend, a ballerina, introduced her to Epstein. Reflecting on this experience, she described it as a classic example of grooming. According to Michaels, “I was brought to him through another woman… who groomed me for two months before she introduced me to him. And that is sex trafficking 101.” She emphasized that such tactics are common and can be found in various cities globally.

Michaels had recently returned from a dance contract in Tokyo when her roommate mentioned a “Wall Street guy” seeking a massage therapist. Initially skeptical, she sought reassurance from her friend, who confirmed the offer’s legitimacy. During her first meeting with Epstein, she found him to be professional and knowledgeable about anatomy. However, his demeanor also exerted subtle pressure, making her feel uncertain about her qualifications.

After this initial interview, Michaels was called for a trial massage at Epstein’s penthouse. It was there that she was assaulted. “I assumed I was the only one,” she recalled, believing that her friend would not have introduced her to Epstein if he had harmed others. During the assault, Michaels experienced a common trauma response—she “froze” and was unable to speak or resist.

She explained, “Back in 1991, rape laws indicated that it was only considered rape based on how much you resisted. Given that I froze, I thought it was my fault.” After the incident, she walked past the doorman, feeling that no one would believe her due to her lack of visible resistance.

In the years that followed, Michaels struggled with the aftermath of her experience. It was not until 2019, following Epstein’s death in prison, that she decided to report the assault to the FBI hotline. “They kept asking for survivors to come forward,” she stated, leading her to reach out. Following her contact, a representative from the New York Police Department’s Sex Victims Task Force listened to her story but informed her that, due to the time elapsed, there was little they could do.

Michaels described her experience with law enforcement as frustrating, stating, “It took me a year and a half of badgering before anyone even bothered to take my victim statement.” This sentiment resonates with many survivors, as she noted that the FBI often failed to take statements from numerous victims.

Now, as an advocate for survivors of sexual violence, Michaels collaborates with the nonprofit organization World Without Exploitation. She finds strength and solace in working alongside other survivors, aiming to create a support network for those affected by similar traumas. “What we’re doing is creating a model for future survivors to just bind together,” she explained. She shared a poignant phrase from another survivor: “Alone we’re afraid, but together we’re feared.”

Michaels’ journey reflects a broader movement among survivors who seek justice and change. By speaking out and advocating for legislative reform, she hopes to empower others and foster a community where survivors are heard and believed.