WASHINGTON — The US Department of Justice has released an initial batch of documents related to the late financier Jeffrey Epstein, following a congressional mandate requiring the full disclosure of the files by Friday.

The release includes photographs, videos and investigative records, but has drawn criticism from Democrats and some Republicans after the Justice Department said it would not meet the deadline for releasing all documents.

Many of the thousands of pages made public were heavily redacted, with some files entirely blacked out.

The first tranche names and depicts several high-profile figures, including former US President Bill Clinton, Britain’s Prince Andrew, and musicians Mick Jagger and Michael Jackson.

Being named or appearing in the files does not imply wrongdoing, and many individuals referenced have previously denied any involvement in Epstein’s crimes.

Several photographs released by the Justice Department show Clinton swimming in a pool and relaxing in what appears to be a hot tub.

Clinton was photographed with Epstein multiple times in the 1990s and early 2000s, before Epstein’s arrest.

He has never been accused by Epstein’s victims and has consistently denied any knowledge of the financier’s sexual abuse.

A spokesperson for Clinton said the images were decades old and accused critics of attempting to deflect attention. “This isn’t about Bill Clinton. Never has, never will be,” the spokesperson said.

Other images show Epstein posing with celebrities including Michael Jackson, Diana Ross, Chris Tucker and Mick Jagger.

The context, timing and circumstances of many of the photographs remain unclear. Previous disclosures have shown Epstein collected images from events he did not attend.

A photograph included in the files appears to show Prince Andrew reclining across several people while Epstein’s associate Ghislaine Maxwell stands behind them. Prince Andrew has denied any wrongdoing and said he was unaware of Epstein’s criminal activities.

One of Epstein’s earliest accusers, artist Maria Farmer, is also referenced in the newly released records.

She told the FBI in 1996 that Epstein stole photographs of her underage sisters and threatened to burn down her house if she reported him. Farmer confirmed the account after the release and said she felt vindicated after nearly three decades.

Despite Friday’s disclosure, the Justice Department acknowledged that several hundred thousand pages remain under review.

Deputy Attorney General Todd Blanche said additional files would be released in the coming weeks after vetting to protect victims’ identities and ongoing investigations.

Lawmakers from both parties expressed frustration over the delays. Some Democrats warned of possible legal or congressional action, arguing the Justice Department failed to comply with the law requiring full transparency. — Agencies