Newly surfaced photographs have provided a rare and unsettling glimpse into the interior of Jeffrey Epstein's Zorro Ranch in New Mexico, revealing an array of stately rooms adorned with eccentric decor. The images, which emerged from a 2015 risk management report compiled for the late sex offender, depict the sprawling 22,000-square-foot property in intricate detail, highlighting both its opulence and the dark legacy associated with it.
Historical Context and Recent Ownership
Located in a small town on the outskirts of Santa Fe, the ranch was originally purchased by Epstein in 1993 from former New Mexico Governor Bruce King. Following Epstein's death in 2019 while awaiting trial on sex trafficking charges, the property was sold in 2023 to Texas businessman and politician Donald Huffines. Huffines, a self-described "MAGA Trump Republican" who is running for Texas comptroller, has since renamed it the San Rafael Ranch and announced plans to convert it into a Christian retreat center.
Scrutiny and Allegations
The Zorro Ranch has drawn intense scrutiny for years, particularly since the Justice Department began releasing millions of documents related to Epstein under the Epstein Files Transparency Act. These files include multiple allegations of abuse occurring at the remote property, which features its own airstrip and helipad.
Notable victims linked to the ranch include Virginia Giuffre, who died in 2025 and was photographed there, and Annie Farmer, who has publicly recounted the abuse she suffered at the hands of Epstein and his associate Ghislaine Maxwell. Disturbingly, one alleged victim claimed she was forced to carry Epstein's child in New Mexico, and The New York Times reported that Epstein told friends he planned to impregnate "20 women at a time" at the ranch.
Interior Details from the 2015 Report
The 2015 risk management report, compiled by an insurance firm and included in the recently released documents, contains 26 photos of the estate. These images offer a comprehensive look at the property's interior and exterior features.
Lavish Rooms and Amenities
Inside the main structure, several photos reveal lavishly decorated rooms. The "Great Room" boasts a massive oversized fireplace, an elaborate chandelier, and purple wingback chairs, with a painting encased in a gilded frame adding to the ornate atmosphere. An office is pictured with bookshelves lining the walls and a large wooden desk equipped with a Mac computer at its center.
Other amenities captured in the photos include a large kitchen with ample counter space and a substantial oven, as well as an indoor swimming pool complete with a bench and wall clock. The report also highlights the property's security measures, such as fire and burglar alarms, a perimeter gate, and a full-time caretaker.
Outbuildings and Unique Features
Beyond the main mansion, the report includes photos of numerous standalone structures on the 22,000-square-foot property. These include stables, a log cabin, a barn, and a house with a wraparound porch surrounded by a picket fence. Notably, a fire house with large white front doors, housing a red fire truck and fire tanker, is also nestled on the grounds. A rear view of the main building shows a facade adorned with arches and columns, adding to its stately appearance. The property was valued for tax purposes at $22 million in the report.
Ongoing Investigations and Controversies
Last month, state officials in New Mexico opened a new investigation into whether Epstein used the remote ranch to traffic young women and girls. This comes after earlier federal probes were closed without any charges being brought. Democratic state Representative Andrea Romero emphasized the need for accountability, stating, "We have heard years of allegations and rumors about Epstein's activities in New Mexico, but unfortunately, federal investigations have failed to put together an official record."
Current Developments and Responses
Since purchasing the property, Huffines has faced criticism, which he has dismissed as "a political hit job." In February, he told former GOP Representative Matt Gaetz on a podcast that the plan is to transform the estate into a Christian retreat, noting that construction is already underway. However, in January, state regulators ordered a pause in construction, alleging that necessary permits had not been obtained, according to The Santa Fe New Mexican.
Huffines has also stated that all proceeds from the sale were directed to victims of Epstein and that he has not been contacted by any law enforcement agency regarding an investigation into the ranch. He added that he would "be happy to cooperate" if asked. Near the entrance of the renamed San Rafael Ranch, a makeshift memorial has been set up to honor Epstein's victims, reflecting the property's complex and somber history.
