John Kiriakou, a former CIA officer, stated during a Fox News appearance that the so-called Deep State likely destroyed the Epstein files. Kiriakou clarified that he does not blame FBI Director Kash Patel or Deputy Director Dan Bongino, suggesting that the destruction occurred at a level beneath them within the intelligence community. He indicated that this action was taken before Patel and Bongino had access to the documents, implying a deliberate effort to eliminate compromising information related to Jeffrey Epstein. The claim follows earlier reports that the Epstein files, which reportedly contained details on over 40 confirmed associates, are no longer available and that no further disclosures will be made.