Newly released documents from the Department of Justice (DOJ) reveal that Dr. Jess Ting, a prominent figure in transgender surgical procedures, sought financial backing from the late financier Jeffrey Epstein for a documentary project. The emails, disclosed on August 18, 2023, outline Ting’s excitement about his innovative work at Mount Sinai Health System and his invitation to visit Epstein’s private island.
In a 2016 email, Dr. Ting, who has served as an assistant professor of surgery since 2001, expressed enthusiasm about his role as director of the newly established transgender medicine and surgery program at Mount Sinai. He wrote, “Mount Sinai, being the progressive place that it is, saw [an] opportunity and need to take a leadership position in the area of Transgender Health and created the first full-spectrum academic program in the US focused on transgender surgery and care.” He viewed this groundbreaking initiative as a suitable subject for a documentary.
Ting requested Epstein’s support by stating, “If I could just be really forward, I was wondering if you would be interested in supporting this documentary?” He proposed that he and the production team would visit Epstein to present their pitch in person, emphasizing that the project would contribute positively to society. The documentary titled “Born to Be,” which chronicles Ting’s work with transgender patients, was eventually released in 2019, although it remains unclear whether Epstein provided funding for the film.
The email exchange also revealed a previous financial connection between Epstein and Mount Sinai. In 2013, Epstein pledged a grant of $50,000 for breast cancer research, which Ting had requested. The correspondence indicates that Epstein was involved in philanthropy related to medical research before his conviction in 2008 for soliciting prostitution from a minor.
Ting’s interactions with Epstein included an invitation to visit Epstein’s private island, described in a 2013 email from an unnamed assistant. The assistant suggested that Ting “enjoy a day on his island during your vacation,” offering transportation from St. John and the opportunity for recreational activities. Ting considered the invitation “extremely generous” and coordinated details for the proposed visit, indicating he would bring a friend and her three young children. It remains uncertain whether this trip occurred.
Dr. Ting has not been implicated in any of Epstein’s alleged criminal activities nor has he publicly commented on the released emails. The disclosure of these documents is part of the DOJ’s efforts to comply with the Epstein Files Transparency Act, aimed at shedding light on Epstein’s extensive network and activities.
The release of this information has reignited discussions around Epstein’s influence and connections within various sectors, including the medical field. As the investigation into Epstein’s dealings continues, the implications of these communications could have lasting effects on the individuals involved and the institutions they represent.
