Rep. Melanie Stansbury, U.S. Congresswoman representing New Mexico’s 1st district, announced on March 10, 2026, that the New Mexico Department of Justice (NM DOJ) has begun an on-the-ground investigation at Zorro Ranch, a property associated with Jeffrey Epstein.
In a tweet posted at 00:12 UTC on March 10, Stansbury stated: “BREAKING: The @NewMexicoDOJ has begun its on-the-ground investigation of Zorro Ranch TODAY. Epstein survivors have waited for far too long for justice and New Mexico is leading the way in the pursuit of truth and accountability. We are leaving no stone unturned. NM DOJ is”.
Later that day at 02:14 UTC, she provided another update: “Breaking Epstein Investigation Update! NM DOJ has begun searching Zorro Ranch. “.
On March 10 at 15:54 UTC, Stansbury questioned previous actions taken by federal authorities regarding the case: “Yesterday, the NM DOJ began its investigation at Zorro Ranch. Why did the FBI tell NM to drop its case in 2019? Who asked them to do so and why? That’s why this new investigation is so important. I am grateful to both the NM DOJ and the NM Legislature’s Epstein Truth Commission”.
The renewed focus on Zorro Ranch comes amid longstanding questions about law enforcement’s handling of allegations connected to Jeffrey Epstein in New Mexico. Stansbury referenced prior intervention by federal authorities in her remarks.
Melanie Stansbury has served as a member of Congress since replacing Deb Haaland in 2021 and previously represented Albuquerque in the New Mexico House of Representatives from 2019 to 2021. She was born in Farmington, New Mexico in 1979 and currently resides in Albuquerque. In recent election cycles, Stansbury won her seat against Steve Jones in 2024 with approximately 56% of the vote; she also secured victories over Michelle Garcia Holmes in 2022 and Mark Moores in a special election held after Haaland’s departure.
The ongoing investigation by state officials marks a significant development for survivors seeking answers related to activities at Zorro Ranch.
