French prosecutors to set up special team to review Epstein files

The Guardian World

by AFP in Paris

February 14, 2026

AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary

French prosecutors have established a special team of magistrates to investigate potential ties between Jeffrey Epstein's crimes and prominent French nationals. This decision comes after U.S. authorities released documents revealing Epstein’s connections to influential figures in France, including former modeling agency executive Jean-Luc Brunel, who was a close associate of the convicted sex offender and died in custody in 2022. The Paris prosecutor’s office announced the initiative on Saturday, emphasizing the need to thoroughly re-examine Brunel’s case. This move underscores growing international scrutiny of Epstein’s far-reaching network and its impact on global legal systems. The task force will analyze evidence that could implicate French nationals in Epstein’s crimes, potentially leading to new charges or revisiting past cases. The decision highlights France’s commitment to addressing the fallout from Epstein’s actions, which have sparked widespread outrage worldwide. By forming this special team, French authorities aim to ensure accountability for any individuals linked to Epstein’s illegal activities. This effort also reflects broader global efforts to hold powerful figures accountable for sexual abuse and exploitation. This development matters because it demonstrates how international cooperation and transparency can lead to justice in complex cases involving influential individuals. As more details emerge about Epstein’s network, the world is watching closely to see how nations respond and whether justice will be served for victims and their families. The French government’s actions set an important precedent for addressing similar issues globally, emphasizing the importance of persistent investigation and legal accountability.

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Originally published on The Guardian World on 2/14/2026