France assembles magistrate team to examine 'Epstein files'
Deutsche Welle
February 15, 2026
AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary
France has formed a special team of magistrates to investigate evidence linked to the "Epstein files," focusing on potential crimes involving French nationals tied to Jeffrey Epstein. The Paris prosecutor's office announced the initiative to scrutinize cases, including that of late modeling agency executive Jean-Luc Brunel, who was found dead in 2022 while awaiting trial for raping minors and sexual harassment. Brunel, a close associate of Epstein, had been accused of organizing trips for underage girls to meet Epstein but was never charged before his death.
The team will also examine cases involving other French public figures mentioned in the files, such as senior diplomat Fabrice Aidan, who is under investigation at the request of the French Foreign Ministry. Additionally, a Swedish woman has filed a complaint accusing model recruiter Daniel Siad, linked to Epstein, of rape in France in 1990. The magistrates are also probing allegations against French conductor Frédéric Chaslin for sexual harassment in 2016.
The investigation extends to financial crimes, with a preliminary case opened against former culture minister Jack Lang and his daughter Caroline Lang for allegedly laundering proceeds from aggravated tax fraud. Both have been mentioned over 670 times in the Epstein files, which detail Epstein's connections to global elites, including Trump, Musk, and European royalty. While being named in the files does not imply wrongdoing, the probe underscores France's commitment to addressing potential ties between high-ranking officials and Epstein's network.
This re-examination of the Epstein files highlights the ongoing global effort to uncover misconduct linked to the convicted sex offender. By focusing on cases involving French nationals, the investigation not only addresses unresolved allegations but also sheds light on how powerful individuals may have exploited their connections to Epstein for personal gain. The case of Jean-Luc
Verticals
worldpolitics
Originally published on Deutsche Welle on 2/15/2026