The family of Don Huffines, a former Texas state senator currently campaigning for state comptroller, has been identified as the purchaser of the Zorro Ranch in New Mexico, a property previously owned by the late Jeffrey Epstein. The revelation comes as New Mexico lawmakers move forward with a bipartisan investigation into allegations of criminal activity at the ranch, including unverified claims that two girls may be buried on or near the property.
The sprawling 7,000-acre estate, located southeast of Santa Fe, was acquired in 2023 by San Rafael Ranch LLC, a company linked to the Huffines family, according to reports first published by the Real Deal. The purchase price remains undisclosed, though the property was previously listed for as much as $27.5 million before reportedly dropping to $18 million. The Huffines family protested the property’s valuation for tax purposes, citing its “notoriety,” and successfully had it assessed at $13.4 million.
The timing of the disclosure coincides with the unanimous approval by the New Mexico House of Representatives for a “Truth Commission” tasked with examining years of alleged criminal activity at the ranch. Lawmakers cited concerns that past failures to investigate allegations surrounding the property continue to affect public safety and erode confidence in state government. The commission will have subpoena power and the authority to compel witnesses to testify.
Epstein purchased the ranch in 1993 and it quickly became associated with allegations of sex trafficking and abuse. The property features a 26,700-square-foot hacienda-style mansion, guest houses, a pool, ranch offices, a firehouse, heated garages, a private airstrip, and a helipad, making it a self-contained and remote location. Court filings and survivor testimony have alleged that underage girls were flown to the ranch on Epstein’s private jet and subjected to abuse, and that influential individuals visited the property.
While Epstein was never charged with crimes in New Mexico, the state attorney general previously confirmed an investigation into activities at the ranch. Renewed scrutiny was prompted by the recent release of a 2019 email, included in documents released by the Department of Justice, alleging that two girls were buried in the hills surrounding the ranch. The email, from an anonymous sender claiming to be a former ranch employee, detailed allegations of strangulation during “rough, fetish sex.” These claims remain unverified and law enforcement’s previous response to the allegations is unclear.
Commissioner of Public Lands Stephanie Garcia Richard has called for a renewed investigation, noting that portions of the land referenced in the email are on state-leased land connected to the ranch. She stated that her office is prepared to grant access to state land and cooperate with the Truth Commission. “So knowing or thinking that no investigation had been done, I renewed my calls for investigation based on this particular allegation,” she said, adding that “there has not been any investigation on the state land portions of the ranch, nor the private land portions of the ranch that I’m aware of.”
Don Huffines acknowledged his family’s purchase of the ranch in a social media post, stating that “proceeds from the sale benefited the victims” of Epstein. He also indicated that the property is being redeveloped as a Christian retreat. Huffines has stated he would cooperate with authorities should they contact him, but has not yet been approached.
The Zorro Ranch has long been the subject of disturbing allegations, including claims that Epstein envisioned it as a location for a “baby-making” operation, as reported in civil lawsuits. These claims suggest Epstein discussed plans to seed the human race with his DNA.
The establishment of the Truth Commission reflects a broader effort to address lingering questions and concerns surrounding the ranch and Epstein’s alleged crimes. Lawmakers framed the commission as a necessary step to restore public trust and ensure accountability. The panel’s findings could have significant implications for ongoing investigations and potential legal proceedings.
The unfolding situation is likely to draw further attention to Epstein’s network of associates and the extent of his alleged criminal activities. The investigation in New Mexico could potentially uncover new evidence and shed light on previously unknown aspects of the case.
