Ghislaine Maxwell to be barred from training service dogs at Texas prison

Ghislaine Maxwell, convicted of sex trafficking and aiding Jeffrey Epstein in abusing underage girls, has been transferred to a private Texas prison known for its amenities. Despite the facility offering courses such as service dog training for inmates, Maxwell will be prohibited from participating in this program due to her criminal history involving minor abuse.

Paige Mazzoni, CEO of Canine Companions, confirmed that her organization’s policy disallows individuals involved in crimes against minors or animals from engaging in their programs. “It’s a strict rule to protect vulnerable puppies from potential harm,” she explained, emphasizing the importance of safeguarding both the animals and the inmates in training roles.

The prison, often called “Club Fed,” features facilities including a gym, yoga classes, music activities, and cultural events, with inmates allowed to pursue hobbies like painting and crocheting. Maxwell is housed among primarily nonviolent inmates in a minimal-security setting that includes open grounds with limited fencing.

The move comes shortly after Maxwell attempted to negotiate with federal authorities, seeking immunity and a chance to provide information about Epstein’s network. Recently, she opposed efforts by the Justice Department to unseal grand jury transcripts related to her case.

Maxwell will be among high-profile inmates at the facility, sharing space with figures such as Elizabeth Holmes of Theranos and Jen Shah, the convicted scammer from “Real Housewives of Salt Lake City.” A prison official described the facility as “one of the best” options for those incarcerated there.