Microsoft co founder Bill Gates has apologised to staff at the Gates Foundation for his past association with convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein, describing his decision to spend time with him as a serious error.
According to a report by The Wall Street Journal, Gates made the remarks during a town hall meeting on Tuesday. He reportedly acknowledged that his meetings with Epstein were a mistake and expressed regret for the impact the controversy has had on others connected to him.
Gates’ links to Epstein first became widely known in October 2019. Further details have since emerged following the release of documents by the United States Department of Justice relating to the late financier.
Among the documents referenced in the report was an email in which Epstein allegedly claimed that Gates had contracted a sexually transmitted infection and sought medication to secretly administer to his then wife, Melinda. Gates has denied the allegation.
The documents also outlined several interactions between the two men, including meetings over dinner, telephone conversations and discussions about philanthropic initiatives. The Journal reported that Gates admitted he brought foundation executives to some of these meetings and apologised for doing so.
During the town hall, Gates also acknowledged having had two extramarital relationships but insisted he was not involved in Epstein’s criminal activities. He said he met the women independently through social and professional engagements.
In comments reviewed by the newspaper, Gates apologised to individuals who have been affected by what he described as his misjudgement. He said he first met Epstein in 2011 and admitted he did not thoroughly examine his background at the time, despite Epstein having previously pleaded guilty to soliciting a minor for prostitution.
Gates said he continued to meet Epstein until 2014 and spent time with him abroad, but maintained that he never stayed overnight at Epstein’s properties or visited his private island.
The relationship reportedly continued even after Melinda expressed reservations. In a recent interview, Melinda said the renewed attention brought back painful memories from their marriage and expressed relief at moving beyond that period.
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