Daniel Siad, modelling scout with ties to Epstein, found dead in France

Daniel Siad, a modelling scout whose name appeared nearly 2,000 times in the Epstein files released by the US Department of Justice, was found dead at his home outside Paris on Wednesday, prosecutors said. His body was reportedly discovered in the kitchen by a woman staying with him, and a neighbor reportedly attempted CPR without success.

Siad’s death comes amid a wide-ranging probe into human trafficking and tax fraud opened in February following the release of the Epstein files. Since the investigation began, 24 women have come forward as victims or witnesses of alleged acts committed by Siad or others, Paris prosecutor Laure Beccuau said in a statement. As part of the probe, Siad had been subjected to special scrutiny, though he had repeatedly proclaimed his innocence.

Siad’s lawyer, Arab-Tigrine, told Reuters that Siad had asked on several occasions to be heard by French judicial authorities, but that no action was taken. She confirmed that Siad had died of a heart attack.

Siad is the second man publicly linked to Epstein who has died in France. In 2020, French authorities arrested modelling agent Jean-Luc Brunel after allegations he procured women for Epstein. Brunel was found hanged in his prison cell in 2022, having spent 14 months in custody awaiting trial on charges of rape of minors and sexual harassment. He denied the charges, along with any participation in Epstein’s sex trafficking.

The Epstein files, released by the US Department of Justice, have revealed extensive connections between the late financier and individuals in the modelling and entertainment industries. Epstein, who died in prison in 2019 while awaiting trial on sex trafficking charges, had a long history of exploiting young women and maintaining a network of powerful associates. The release of these documents has reignited debates about accountability and the extent of Epstein’s influence.

Siad’s death raises questions about the circumstances surrounding his passing and the ongoing investigation into his activities. His lawyer’s statement that he had sought to be heard by authorities suggests a desire to clear his name, but his sudden death has left many unanswered questions. The French authorities have not yet released further details about the investigation into Siad’s activities, but the probe continues as more victims and witnesses come forward.

The deaths of Brunel and Siad have drawn attention to the high-profile individuals connected to Epstein who have died under unusual circumstances. While both men denied the allegations against them, their deaths have fueled speculation about the extent of Epstein’s network and the pressure faced by those connected to him. As the investigation continues, the public will be watching closely for any further developments in the case. Siad’s death marks another chapter in the ongoing saga of the Epstein scandal, which has exposed the dark underbelly of the modelling and entertainment industries and raised questions about the accountability of those who enabled Epstein’s crimes. The investigation into Siad’s activities and the broader network of individuals connected to Epstein is likely to continue, with the hope of bringing justice to the victims and shedding further light on the extent of Epstein’s influence.