Republican Congressman Matt Gaetz faced additional challenges this week as part of an ongoing ethics investigation. The GOP-controlled ethics committee reported in June that it was still examining allegations against him stemming from a 2021 Justice Department inquiry regarding whether he had engaged in sexual conduct with a minor and transported her across state lines. The committee’s investigation focuses on accusations of sexual misconduct, drug use, receipt of improper gifts, and obstruction of government investigations.
On Friday, newly filed court documents revealed affidavits from three witnesses who claimed Gaetz attended a drug-fueled sex party in 2017, which involved a minor at the center of the alleged sex trafficking case. According to the documents, the underage girl, who was a junior in high school at the time, arrived at the gathering on July 15, 2017, at the Florida residence of Chris Dorworth, a lobbyist and acquaintance of Gaetz.
One affidavit from a witness, identified only as K.M., claimed the teenage girl was naked and that attendees were present to partake in sexual activities, noting the availability of alcohol and drugs including cocaine, ecstasy, and marijuana. The young girl was referred to in the documents as A.B.
Dorworth, denying any connection with the teenager, stated in a text that he had “never met” her and accused her of lying about Gaetz.
Originally initiated under former Speaker Nancy Pelosi, the House’s ethics investigation into Gaetz was paused pending the outcome of the Justice Department investigation, which concluded in February 2023 without charges against him. The ethics probe was subsequently reopened. Reports have indicated that Joel Greenberg, a former ally of Gaetz who pleaded guilty to sex trafficking in 2021, is cooperating with the ethics committee.
Gaetz’s office has been contacted for comments, but the congressman has not publicly responded to the latest information in the investigation.