The Vault: The Epstein Files MCC Corrections Officer Michael Thomas And His OIG Interview Related To Epstein's Death (Part 19) (3/6/26)
Mar 7, 2026
Michael Thomas, a veteran MCC correctional officer who was on duty the night Jeffrey Epstein was found unresponsive. He recounts his OIG interview about access to files, who could enter the SHU shoe area, discovery details, emails from Psychology, questions about count sheets, and patterns around conducting rounds and institutional staffing issues.
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Thomas Denies Touching Epstein Files
- Michael Thomas insists he never handled or removed any of Jeffrey Epstein's paperwork or cell signs during his shift on August 9–10, 2019.
- He repeatedly answers questions about 292s, BOP databases, and file locations with direct denials and says he did not access institutional systems after the incident.
Placed On Leave By Letter Not Direct Contact
- Thomas says he was placed on administrative leave by letter and did not receive in-person notification from MCC leadership after Epstein's death.
- He recalls only limited post-incident contact, mainly a union meeting and a later discussion unrelated to the case.
Shoe Door Is The Only Access Point
- Thomas explains physical access control: 10 South can only be reached through the SHU shoe door and cannot be accessed from other parts of the institution without going through that door.
- He rules out alternate entry except possibly through control keys or mechanical routes he doesn't know about, emphasizing custody control over access.