Control, threats, disfiguring surgery: My life inside Jeffrey Epstein's 'cult'
"Anya" gives the BBC a rare account of how sex-criminal financier Epstein lured and abused his “assistants”.
Coverage by Political Leaning
See how different sides of the spectrum reported this story
Notable Quotes
""I'm still struggling to reconcile with the fact that I was abused for years.""
— Anya , Other
""He was very good at just decimating your ability to make your own decisions and have your own autonomy.""
— Sarah Kellen , Other
""You can be groomed as an adult.""
— Dr Tara Quinn-Cirillo , Academic
Key People
A former assistant of Jeffrey Epstein who recounted her experiences of abuse.
A modelling scout who introduced Anya to Jeffrey Epstein.
A clinical psychologist who has worked with victims of coercive control.
Jeffrey Epstein was an American financier and convicted sex offender.
Brother of Jeffrey Epstein, who denied knowledge of his brother's actions.
Another former assistant of Jeffrey Epstein who testified about his coercive control.
Locations
All Coverage
"Anya" gives the BBC a rare account of how sex-criminal financier Epstein lured and abused his “assistants”.
Similar Stories
Related coverage based on topic and tags
'He will never walk free': Indian judge's letter promises child sex abuse survivor
In the emotional letter, the judge describes the survivor as "the bravest little girl this court has ever seen".
September 30, 2026 at 08:45 AMGisele Pelicot rape case to be told in London play
Thirty actors will take part in the documentary-style performance based on documents from the trial.
September 29, 2026 at 11:54 AM'I was lured into a trap': Evan Gershkovich on moment that led to 16 months in Russian jail
The US journalist says he realised he was a "a pawn in a greater game" when he was not interrogated or tortured by FSB agents.
September 29, 2026 at 12:43 PMNorway parliament probes Epstein links to politicians, diplomats - Reuters
Norway parliament probes Epstein links to politicians, diplomats Reuters
September 30, 2026 at 01:03 AMCornell frat house rape accuser 'under siege' online, says lawyer
A lawyer for Jane Doe says she is "not doing well" amid attempts to uncover her identity.
October 2, 2026 at 11:53 PMChaos, coffins and 'Claudiapatra' steal the show in Celebrity Traitors
There is paranoia, confusion and a battle to survive among the celebrities as they fight for survival.
October 1, 2026 at 08:18 PM