A modelling scout with links to child sex offender Jeffrey Epstein has been found dead at his home outside Paris. Daniel Siad, 69, was one of several men under investigation in France for allegedly helping the late financier traffic and abuse women.
Background of the case
Siad's name appeared more than 1,000 times in the Epstein files. In addition to his ties to Epstein, he was being investigated over accusations including rape. Siad had denied any wrongdoing and said he wanted to be heard and give his version of events.
The Nanterre prosecutor's office confirmed on Wednesday that Siad's body had been found in his house. An autopsy has yet to be carried out. The prosecutor added: 'An investigation to determine the cause of death was opened on Monday evening following the discovery.'
Connections to Epstein
In a message to Epstein dated 2014, Siad compared the process of allegedly recruiting women to fishing. 'In This busyness I feel like fisherman some time I cache quick, some time no fish [sic],' he said. 'I had 2 girls from Sweden, a Slovakian, 2 French and [redacted] the Russian, with whom you spoke and a beautiful Chinese named [redacted].' Epstein replied: 'I will reimburse you of course for any expenses.'
Siad later said the American billionaire – who died in prison in 2019 while awaiting trial – had 'taken advantage of his trust'. Siad worked as a scout on commission for Jean-Luc Brunel, a modelling agent arrested in 2020 on accusations of recruiting women on behalf of Epstein. Brunel was found dead in prison in February 2022 after 14 months awaiting trial on charges of rape of minors and sexual harassment, which he denied.
