Table of Contents
The release of documents related to Jeffrey Epstein, a financier embroiled in scandal, has spotlighted not only his associates but also those he intended to benefit from his estate. Among these individuals is Karyna Shulyak, a dentist from Belarus, who was earmarked to receive a substantial inheritance just days before his untimely death. Whispers of their relationship and her potential financial windfall continue to circulate.
Epstein’s last will, drawn up two days prior to his demise, reveals a surprising allocation of his assets. He was discovered dead in his jail cell on August 10, 2019, under circumstances that were officially classified as a suicide, though various conspiracy theories abound regarding the true nature of his death.
The facts
The recent release of files by the U.S. Department of Justice on January 30 has unveiled Epstein’s estate plan, which outlines his intentions for the distribution of his wealth. At the time of his death, Epstein’s net worth was estimated to hover around $600 million, but this figure has seen a dramatic decline in subsequent legal documents, dropping to approximately $127 million by.
Within the 32-page document, Epstein detailed his desire for around 40 beneficiaries to share his estate. Notable names include his brother, Mark Epstein, and his confidante, Ghislaine Maxwell, who is currently serving a lengthy prison sentence for her role in Epstein’s illicit activities. Other beneficiaries, such as his former employees, were also mentioned, though some names were redacted to protect privacy.
The substantial inheritance for Shulyak
According to the will, Karyna Shulyak was identified as Epstein’s primary heir, with an astonishing inheritance of $100 million. This sum was to be disbursed in two parts: an upfront payment and the remainder placed into a trust that would ensure monthly payments for her lifetime. In addition to her monetary inheritance, Shulyak was to receive 48 diamonds, Epstein’s diamond ring, and various properties, including luxury apartments in New York and Paris, a ranch in New Mexico, and the notorious Little St. James, Epstein’s private Caribbean island.
Insights into Karyna Shulyak’s background
Karyna Shulyak’s connection to Epstein first came to light in when it was reported she was the last person to converse with him before his death. Their last phone call, occurring on the evening of August 9, lasted 15 minutes and was not recorded. Upon inquiry, Epstein falsely claimed he had called his deceased mother instead.
Shulyak hails from Minsk, where she spent her childhood and pursued studies at the Belarusian State Medical University. In 2009, she ventured to the United States for the first time through a summer work program, during which she reportedly met Epstein. Interestingly, this meeting coincided with Epstein’s prior conviction for sex offenses, a time when many distanced themselves from him.
A complex relationship
Sources close to Shulyak describe her as a sincere and kind individual, suggesting that her connection to Epstein was not rooted in financial gain but genuine affection. Epstein funded her dental education at Columbia University and facilitated medical care for her mother while in the U.S. Additionally, he is said to have maintained a close relationship with Shulyak’s family, sending significant financial support to her parents.
Despite the speculation surrounding Shulyak’s involvement in Epstein’s illicit activities, there has been no indication of her direct participation. Allegations suggest she was unaware of the full extent of Epstein’s criminal dealings, although some reports indicate she was possessive and monitored his interactions closely.
Questions surrounding her inheritance
As time passes, uncertainty looms over whether Karyna Shulyak will ever see any portion of the promised inheritance. Following Epstein’s death, his estate has been embroiled in legal disputes, with significant funds allocated to compensating his numerous victims. Legal representatives of the estate have made it clear that no distributions will occur until all claims against the estate are resolved, which means Shulyak’s financial future remains precarious.
Epstein’s last will, drawn up two days prior to his demise, reveals a surprising allocation of his assets. He was discovered dead in his jail cell on August 10, 2019, under circumstances that were officially classified as a suicide, though various conspiracy theories abound regarding the true nature of his death.0
