Epstein's 'Minor Supplier' French Model Agent Commits Suicide

Key witness in the Epstein case, Virginia Giuffre [Photo by AP]

[Asia Economy Reporter Cho Hyun-ui] The former head of a French modeling agency, accused of assisting the crimes of American billionaire Jeffrey Epstein?who committed suicide while imprisoned on charges of sexual offenses against minors?has taken his own life in prison.

CNN reported on the 20th (local time) that Jean-Luc Brunel, former head of Karin Models, who was indicted on charges including the sexual assault of minors, was found hanged in a detention center in Paris early the previous morning.

Brunel’s lawyer issued a statement saying, "His decision was not due to guilt but deep frustration," and added, "Brunel never stopped asserting his innocence."

Brunel, 75 this year, was the founder of the well-known French modeling agency Karin Models and had been under investigation by French authorities for allegations including handing over minors from his agency to Epstein.

The New York Times (NYT) stated, "Brunel met Epstein while expanding his business in the United States and became close friends," adding, "The two often traveled together and socialized."

Virginia Giuffre, a victim who recently reached a settlement and is known for her association with Prince Andrew, the second son of Queen Elizabeth II and another close friend of Epstein, testified in court that she was forced into prostitution by Brunel.

Brunel was arrested by French prosecutors in December 2020 just before boarding a flight to Senegal, Africa, at Paris Charles de Gaulle International Airport. He was released last November under judicial supervision but was re-incarcerated shortly after following a decision by the appellate court.

The NYT commented, "His death recalls the death of Epstein in 2019." Epstein, who was arrested and charged in the United States in July 2019 for sexually abusing about 20 minors, hanged himself in prison one month after being detained.

With Brunel’s death, the charges against him are expected to be dismissed. The lawyer for a former Dutch model who accused him of sexual assault stated, "Like Epstein’s victims, Brunel’s victims have been denied the opportunity to achieve justice."

Giuffre tweeted, "The death of Brunel, who abused me and countless girls, closes another chapter," adding, "It is disappointing that he did not face trial, but it is fortunate that he was imprisoned."

This content was produced with the assistance of AI translation services.