Gateway Co‑Founder Ted Waitt Discloses $7.2 Million Payment to Ghislaine Maxwell After 2004‑2010 Romance

Context The testimony came during a closed‑door interview with the House Oversight and Reform Committee, which is probing the networks surrounding convicted sex‑trafficker Jeffrey Epstein. Waitt, a billionaire who built the PC company Gateway, was called to clarify his past connections to Maxwell, Epstein’s longtime associate, after her 2022 conviction for sex‑trafficking crimes.

Key Facts - Waitt confirmed a romantic relationship with Maxwell that began in 2004 and ended in September 2010. He described the partnership as “six years” and said it “ran its course.” - In September 2010, shortly after the breakup, Waitt transferred $7.2 million to Maxwell. He said the payment was a personal gesture because “Maxwell was devastated by our breakup” and that such settlements are “not uncommon for people in my situation.” - Throughout the relationship, Waitt lived in San Diego while Maxwell resided in New York; they traveled together but also spent long periods apart. - Waitt said he avoided Epstein, describing him as “off‑putting” and noting he never entered Epstein’s homes, flew on his plane, or visited Epstein’s private island. - When asked about abuse allegations, Waitt stated he never heard of any accusations against Epstein or Maxwell while they were together. He recalled a brief discussion of Epstein’s 2008 conviction, during which Maxwell denied involvement. - Waitt acknowledged making regular monthly payments to Maxwell during the relationship, but the $7.2 million transfer was a one‑time settlement after they split.

What It Means Waitt’s disclosure adds a financial dimension to the web of ties between wealthy tech figures and the Epstein‑Maxwell network. The $7.2 million payment, while framed as a personal settlement, raises questions about the scale of resources Maxwell could access outside her criminal activities. Waitt’s claim of ignorance about abuse allegations aligns with his broader effort to distance himself from Epstein’s crimes, but the testimony provides lawmakers with a clearer timeline of personal interactions that may inform ongoing investigations.

Looking Ahead The committee will likely examine whether other high‑profile individuals made similar payments to Maxwell and how those funds were used, while continuing to map the financial flows that supported Epstein’s operations.