Jeffrey Epstein Associate Found Dead In Prison

Jean-Luc Brunel, a French modelling agent and associate of Jeffrey Epstein, has been found dead in prison.

Brunel, 74, had been indicted and reprimanded in custody in Paris since December 2020, accused of the 'rape of a minor over 15 years old' and 'sexual harassment'. He was also probed over human trafficking and accused of being part of a criminal conspiracy.

He was briefly released under judicial supervision last November, but he was later returned to detention after a decision from the investigating chamber of the Paris Court of Appeal. He had lodged an appeal against his continual imprisonment.

While Brunel was accused of abusing Virginia Roberts Giuffre, he earlier denied any involvement 'directly or indirectly' in his offences. 'I strongly deny having committed any illicit act or any wrongdoing in the course of my work,' he said in a 2015 statement.

'Prince Andrew has never intended to malign Ms. Giuffre’s character, and he accepts that she has suffered both as an established victim of abuse and as a result of unfair public attacks,' a statement from both parties,' his lawyers' statement read.

'It is known that Jeffrey Epstein trafficked countless young girls over many years. Prince Andrew regrets his association with Epstein, and commends the bravery of Ms. Giuffre and other survivors in standing up for themselves and others,' it added.

An investigation has been opened into the circumstances surrounding Brunel's death behind bars.