WASHINGTON — A tense congressional hearing erupted into outrage Thursday after Congress members voted to hold Jeffrey Epstein’s former flight log pilot in contempt of Congress for obstructing an investigation after hours of deliberate, coordinated silence under oath during the Epstein files hearings.
The witness, identified in flight logs only as “Otto,” was subpoenaed last month as a potential key to unlocking the secrets of Epstein’s infamous “Lolita Express.”
“Mr. Otto, you are here under subpoena, and I remind you that you are under oath,” said Rep. Eric Swalwell (D-CA) heatedly as he banged his little fist against the table. “This is the sixth time I’m asking you this, ‘Did you transport underage girls to Little Saint James island?’ A simple ‘yes’ or ‘no’ will suffice. And wipe that sarcastic smirk off your face, sir.”
Otto the inflatable autopilot gave no verbal responses during questioning, maintaining a steady forward gaze and a plastic smile, which only angered both Democrat and Republican Congress members even further.
“Your refusal to answer is practically an admission of guilt,” declared Rep. Thomas Massie (R-KY) while staring Otto down menacingly. “Look at your eyes, Mr. Otto. Dead. Soulless. Like a shark, or a very cheap pool toy. It’s obvious to all of us that you’re protecting someone.”
Congress later confirmed the investigation will continue, with subpoenas planned for the Epstein aircraft’s beverage cart and two seat cushions.
