Jeffrey Epstein alleged victims speak of 'anger' at accused's suicide before trial

One of Jeffrey Epstein’s accusers says the late US financier was a “coward”, and she feels “very angry and sad” that he killed himself before going to trial.

Courtney Wild spoke at a Manhattan hearing on Tuesday, where more of Epstein’s accusers are also set to speak.

Ms Wild has claimed she was sexually abused by Epstein when she was 14 in Palm Beach, Florida.

US District Judge Richard Berman said earlier in the hearing that Epstein’s August 10 death, ruled a suicide, was a “stunning turn of events”.

The judge said accusers have been included in the hearing “because of their relevant experiences”.

Ms Wild has come forward publicly and has agreed to be identified while some other accusers testified anonymously at the hearing.

Epstein had pleaded not guilty to charges he sex trafficked women in the early 2000s.

One of Jeffrey Epstein’s lawyers told the judge that an expert hired by the family says injuries to his neck were more consistent with homicide than suicide.

Prosecutors and lawyers for Epstein spoke about his death at a Manhattan jail during the court hearing.

A New York City coroner ruled that Epstein’s death in his cell was a suicide by hanging.

Lawyer Martin Weinberg asked US District Judge Richard Berman to look into the matter – although a prosecutor argued the judge would not have jurisdiction.

Mr Berman responded: “I think it’s fair game for defence counsel to raise its concerns.”