A secret investment linked to convicted American sex offender Jeffrey Epstein has surfaced, revealing that he invested nearly $1 million (about ₹8.3 crore) in a police technology startup in 2015. The investment was reportedly facilitated by Barak. The startup, later known as Carbyne (company), is expected to be acquired by a U.S. security technology company for $625 million (around ₹5,200 crore), potentially allowing Epstein to earn more than $100 million if he had retained his stake.
Carbyne Emergency Response Tech
The investment was made in a company originally called Reporty, which was later rebranded as Carbyne. The company developed emergency response communication technology primarily used by law enforcement agencies. Its software enables callers to stream live video from their smartphone cameras directly to emergency control centers during 911 calls, allowing authorities to assess real-time incident conditions.
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Barak Holding Company Concealment
Reports indicate that Epstein’s investment was concealed through a holding company established by Ehud Barak. Email records show that Epstein’s name, along with that of German investor Nicole Junkermann, was not publicly disclosed in investment documents. Together, the $1.5 million investment was estimated to provide at least 25% ownership of the company, along with warrants granting future share purchase rights.
CEO Denies Epstein Knowledge
Carbyne CEO Amir Elichai stated that the company had no knowledge of Epstein’s involvement. Corporate records also show no direct communication between the company and Epstein. It was further clarified that Epstein’s estate did not retain any stock ownership in the firm.
Barak Steps Down Post-Epstein Death
In 2019, around the time of Epstein’s death, Barak stepped down from Carbyne’s board. The company did not provide an official explanation for his resignation, although media reports had earlier highlighted the connection between Barak and Epstein. Barak has previously expressed regret regarding his association with Epstein, stating that the relationship was inappropriate. There is no indication that Barak currently holds a major investment stake in the company.
Junkermann’s Advisory Role
According to reports, Junkermann also played an advisory role in supporting business expansion strategies for the company. She reportedly suggested connecting the founders with influential figures such as former British Prime Minister David Cameron and billionaire industrialist Len Blavatnik. However, the company clarified that Junkermann was never a board member.
Epstein’s Rare Tech Investments
Analysts note that Epstein made relatively few investments in Silicon Valley and other technology sectors despite having extensive global connections. His investment portfolio reportedly included some projects linked to cryptocurrency exchanges and venture capital networks, though the overall scale of his investment activity remained limited compared to his influence.
Live Video Police Technology
Carbyne’s technology is primarily designed for law enforcement and emergency response services. The company aims to develop smartphone-based live video assistance systems that enable faster emergency response operations.
Transparency Questions Raised
Cybersecurity and surveillance technology experts argue that transparency and ethical accountability are essential in such security technology developments. The investment controversy surrounding Epstein has once again intensified global discussions regarding financial funding sources and corporate associations within the technology industry. If the acquisition deal is completed, the company could strengthen its position in the global police security technology market.
About the author – Rehan Khan is a law student and legal journalist with a keen interest in cybercrime, digital fraud, and emerging technology laws. He writes on the intersection of law, cybersecurity, and online safety, focusing on developments that impact individuals and institutions in India.
