“it requires some crime to be committed by people who get money/favors so it—the syndicate—has something to hold over their heads if they start getting ideas about going straight or turning on them.”
That’s what Epstein’s island was all about. Come frolic with other rich and powerful people. Get uppity, and we leak some photos of your escapades.
It was lots of fun while it lasted, but it was still just a job.
I'll bet Epstein even thought he was in control. How smart he must have thought he was...raking in big money, having sex with underage girls in his private jet or on his private island, and being surrounded by rich and famous people.
The problem is, when you work with the Deep State or whatever is behind the Deep State, they own you. They own your soul.
They own Biden too, and Obama...and the Clintons.
They own everyone of substance...but they don't own Trump.