Fact-check analysisVerified as of July 8, 2025Curated by FactVerify
Misleading

A Former CIA Officer has just come out and said the DEEP STATE “probably DESTROYED” the EPSTEIN FILES.

Former CIA officer John Kiriakou suggested on Fox News that the 'Deep State' probably destroyed Epstein files, but this claim is based on speculation without concrete evidence.

FactVerify

FactVerify

Source: factverify.com

The reporting

What the Evidence Shows

The claim that a former CIA officer has stated the 'Deep State' probably destroyed the Epstein files is supported by multiple sources attributing this statement to John Kiriakou. He appeared on Fox News and expressed skepticism about the official narrative, suggesting that the files were likely destroyed by a shadowy group he refers to as the 'Deep State' before certain FBI officials could access them.

However, this assertion is presented as a theory or opinion rather than a verified fact. Kiriakou himself does not provide direct evidence for the destruction of the files, and his comments are framed as his personal belief based on his experience with intelligence operations. The sources reporting this are primarily Pravda and The Gateway Pundit, which are known for publishing controversial or less mainstream viewpoints, and the Times of India also covered his statements.

There is no independent confirmation or official investigation results cited that substantiate the claim that the files were destroyed by any 'Deep State' entity. Therefore, while the statement was indeed made by a former CIA officer, it remains speculative and lacks corroboration, making the claim misleading if presented as an established fact.

Primary trail

Verified Sources5

Deep State probably DESTROYED Epstein files — ex-CIA officer

news-pravda.com
Open source

HERE IT IS: Former CIA Officer Says Deep State "Probably Destroyed" Epstein...

thegatewaypundit.com
Open source

Jeffrey Epstein's files were destroyed by some shadowy "Deep State" group

usa.news-pravda.com
Open source
Keep exploring

Where to go next

Continue with the evidence, catch up on the week, or save this check for later.

Share or return