A French model scout who spent more than a decade introducing aspiring models to convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein has been found dead at his home near Paris, according to French authorities.
Daniel Siad, a professional model recruiter, was discovered at his residence in Colombes, a suburb northwest of the French capital, on July 20. French prosecutors have confirmed that an autopsy will be conducted to determine the cause of death.
The development comes amid renewed scrutiny of Jeffrey Epstein’s associates following the release of additional documents related to the late financier’s trafficking network.
Who was Daniel Siad?
Daniel Siad worked as a professional model scout in France and was involved in recruiting and introducing models within the fashion industry.
According to recent reports, Siad maintained contact with Jeffrey Epstein for more than a decade, introducing women to him through modelling-related connections.
Just days before his death, Siad told CNN that he never witnessed or became aware of abuse involving the women he had referred to Epstein.
He said he believed Epstein was a legitimate professional with ties to the fashion industry.
“I trusted him and believed this guy was a professional person,” Siad told CNN, adding that none of the women he introduced had informed him of any negative experiences.
French authorities confirm discovery
Marie-Céline Lawrysz, deputy public prosecutor at the Nanterre Judicial Court, confirmed that Siad’s body was discovered at his home in Colombes.
Authorities have not publicly disclosed the cause of death.
An autopsy has been ordered as part of the investigation, and officials have not indicated whether foul play is suspected.
Why was Daniel Siad linked to Jeffrey Epstein?
Court records and recently released U.S. Department of Justice documents indicate that Siad maintained communications with Epstein and received payments totaling tens of thousands of dollars.
According to the released documents, Siad sent messages introducing women to Epstein.
One reported message read:
“Cute French girl in Marrakesh… She said that she will (be) happy to meet you.”
Other communications reportedly show Siad assisting Epstein in searching for a young assistant and forwarding photographs of women described as having modelling potential.
What did Siad say about Epstein before his death?
In his interview with CNN, Siad acknowledged introducing women to Epstein but insisted he was unaware of any criminal conduct.
He said he believed Epstein worked professionally within the modelling industry and viewed him as someone associated with Victoria’s Secret and the modelling agency MC2. Siad also stated that he never received complaints from women he introduced to Epstein and therefore did not suspect abuse.
These comments were made shortly before his death.
Epstein’s connections to the modeling industry
Even after Epstein pleaded guilty to sex-related offenses in 2008, several individuals within the fashion and modeling world reportedly continued interacting with him.
Investigations over the years have documented how Epstein used his wealth, business connections and purported links to the fashion industry to establish relationships with aspiring models and young women.
The release of additional Justice Department documents has renewed public interest in those professional networks and the individuals who interacted with Epstein after his conviction.
What happens next?
French investigators are awaiting the results of the autopsy to determine how Daniel Siad died.
At this stage:
- Authorities have confirmed his death.
- An autopsy has been ordered.
- No official cause of death has been released.
- Investigators have not publicly stated whether the death is being treated as suspicious.
Until the medical examination is complete, officials have not announced any further findings.
TL;DR
- French model scout Daniel Siad was found dead at his home in Colombes, near Paris.
- French prosecutors have confirmed that an autopsy will determine the cause of death.
- Siad had known Jeffrey Epstein for more than a decade and introduced models to him.
- Shortly before his death, Siad told CNN he never witnessed or learned of abuse involving women he referred to Epstein.
- Recently released U.S. Justice Department documents reportedly show Siad exchanged messages with Epstein and received payments related to referrals.
- Authorities have not announced whether Siad’s death is considered suspicious.