Leon Black, the billionaire financier and co-founder of Apollo Global Management, concluded his testimony before British authorities on Thursday in connection with the ongoing investigation into the late sex offender Jeffrey Epstein. Black, who has faced scrutiny over his financial ties to Epstein, was observed leaving a central London legal office accompanied by his legal team. Metropolitan Police officers were present but declined to comment on the proceedings.
The testimony, which took place over several hours, is understood to have focused on Black’s business dealings with Epstein between 2012 and 2017. Epstein’s death in 2019 did not halt inquiries into his network of associates. British authorities have been coordinating with their American counterparts, as evidence suggests Epstein’s operations extended across jurisdictions.
Black has previously denied any knowledge of Epstein’s criminal activities, stating that their relationship was confined to legitimate financial advisory services. However, documents unsealed in recent civil lawsuits have raised questions about the nature of their collaboration. The financier’s involvement with Epstein has already had repercussions: in 2020, Black stepped down as chairman of Apollo following an internal review of his ties to Epstein, which found no wrongdoing but noted a lapse in judgment.
The Metropolitan Police’s presence at today’s interview signals a measured but deliberate approach to gathering intelligence. Legal experts note that the use of voluntary testimony rather than a formal arrest suggests the investigation is in an information-gathering phase. Should inconsistencies emerge, however, this could escalate.
British authorities have yet to release a statement on the interview. The Epstein investigation remains active across multiple jurisdictions, with victims’ advocates pressing for accountability among enablers. Leon Black’s testimony may prove a pivotal moment in determining the extent of professional networks that facilitated Epstein’s crimes.
