The Justice Department released thousands of documents related to the Jeffrey Epstein case, including grand jury records from the trial of Ghislaine Maxwell, who is currently serving a 20-year prison sentence for aiding Epstein's abuse of hundreds of girls over the course of years. The documents were incomplete and heavily redacted, sparking anger among Congress members who had pushed for their release for months.

According to Barry Levine, author of "The Spider: Inside the Tangled Web of Jeffrey Epstein and Ghislaine Maxwell," the released documents provide a glimpse into Maxwell's life story and her relationship with President Donald Trump. Levine spoke with Today, Explained host Noel King about Maxwell's path into Epstein's orbit, from being the favored daughter of a media tycoon to becoming an accomplice to hundreds of crimes. "Ghislaine Maxwell was a master manipulator who used her charm and privilege to recruit and groom victims for Epstein's abuse," Levine said. "Her relationship with Trump is significant because it shows that she was able to move in high circles and maintain a level of influence, even after Epstein's death."

Maxwell's relationship with Trump has raised questions about whether she might receive a pardon from the former president. Trump has a history of issuing pardons to individuals with connections to him or his associates, and Maxwell's ties to Epstein and his inner circle have sparked speculation about her potential for a pardon. However, it is worth noting that Trump's pardon power is limited to federal crimes, and Maxwell's conviction for aiding Epstein's abuse of minors is a state-level crime, making a pardon less likely.

Ghislaine Maxwell's background and context are crucial to understanding her role in Epstein's abuse. Born into a wealthy family, Maxwell was raised with a sense of entitlement and privilege. Her father, Robert Maxwell, was a media tycoon who owned a vast array of publications, including the Daily Mirror and the New York Daily News. Ghislaine's relationship with Epstein began in the 1990s, and she quickly became his closest associate and confidante. Together, they recruited and groomed hundreds of young girls for Epstein's abuse, using their wealth and influence to silence victims and avoid detection.

The release of the Epstein files has sparked renewed interest in the case, with many calling for greater accountability and transparency. "The Epstein case is a reminder that power and privilege can be used to silence and exploit the most vulnerable members of society," said Levine. "We need to continue to push for justice and accountability, and ensure that those responsible for Epstein's abuse are held accountable."

As the Justice Department continues to release more documents related to the Epstein case, it is likely that Maxwell's relationship with Trump will remain a topic of discussion. While a pardon is unlikely, Maxwell's ties to Trump and his associates have raised questions about the extent of her influence and the potential for further connections to be revealed.