A Florida judge has released 150 pages of grand jury transcripts from 2006 that investigated sex trafficking and rape allegations against financier Jeffrey Epstein.

The transcripts, which were previously sealed, reveal that prosecutors knew about detailed accusations against Epstein years before he was given a lenient plea deal.

The investigation began in 2005 and involved testimony from two victims, including one who alleged that Epstein molested her when she was 14 and another who claimed she was raped by Epstein on the day before her 18th birthday.

The investigation found that victims were paid for sex acts and encouraged to recruit other underage girls.

Despite the seriousness of the allegations, Epstein pleaded guilty to state prostitution crimes in 2008 and served only 13 months in jail as part of a work release program, CBS News has reported.

The release of the transcripts is the result of a bill signed by Florida Governor Ron DeSantis in February, which allows for the release of grand jury transcripts in certain circumstances.

Written by B.C. Begley