Paris prosecutors open 2 Epstein-linked probes and call on victims to come forward
PARIS — Paris prosecutors have initiated two new investigations into potential sex abuse crimes and financial misconduct associated with Jeffrey Epstein following the release of a vast amount of files related to the disgraced financier and convicted sex offender. They are urging potential victims to come forward with any information they may have.
Paris prosecutor Laurence Beccuau stated that the investigations will utilize the files released by the U.S. administration, as well as information from media reports and new complaints that are being lodged.
Beccuau emphasized the importance of thoroughly examining the data to gain a comprehensive understanding of the situation. One investigation will focus on sex abuse crimes, while the other will look into financial irregularities. Specialized magistrates will be assigned to each case.
The decision to launch these investigations comes after the U.S. Justice Department released over 3 million pages of documents, along with numerous videos and photos connected to Epstein, who passed away in custody in 2019.
Beccuau acknowledged that the recent publications may reawaken trauma for some victims and expressed the belief that there are individuals who have not yet come forward. She encouraged anyone with information to make formal complaints or provide testimonies to assist in the ongoing investigations.
Additionally, Beccuau mentioned that older investigations will be revisited in light of the new revelations. This includes the case of French modeling agent Jean-Luc Brunel, who was accused of rape and sex trafficking of minors and died in his jail cell in 2022.
Epstein’s connections to France have also come under scrutiny, with former Culture Minister Jack Lang resigning from his position over suspicions of tax fraud following the release of the Epstein files. The financial prosecutors’ office is now investigating Lang and his daughter’s alleged ties to Epstein through an offshore company based in the U.S. Virgin Islands.
