Donations to science often avoid scrutiny. Jeffrey Epstein used this to his advantage

NPR | By Katia Riddle

Published March 17, 2026 at 4:48 AM EDT

Billions of dollars are invested in science every year through philanthropy, with little legal or public scrutiny. Jeffrey Epstein utilized this to cultivate scientists and launder his reputation.

Katia Riddle

Katia Riddle is a correspondent at NPR covering mental health. She has reported extensively on the impact of events such as Hurricane Helene, Los Angeles wildfires and the loneliness epidemic. Prior to her current role, she covered public health including reproductive rights and homelessness. She won a 2024 Gracie Award for a series on reproductive rights.

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Donations to science often avoid scrutiny. Jeffrey Epstein used this to his advantage

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