Daniel Siad, a French modelling scout linked to convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein, was found dead at his home near Paris on Monday evening, officials confirmed. Siad, 69, had been under investigation by French prosecutors for allegations including rape and human trafficking but had not yet been questioned. An autopsy has been ordered to determine the cause of death.
Siad’s name appeared extensively in documents related to Epstein, which were declassified and revealed details of his involvement in recruiting women for Epstein. Prosecutors in Nanterre confirmed the investigation into his activities, and French authorities had set up a special team of magistrates earlier this year to analyze evidence related to Epstein’s network, which includes several French nationals.
Siad was accused by at least five women of sexual abuse and trafficking. Among them, Ebba Karlsson, a Swedish former model, publicly alleged that Siad raped her in France in 1990 after scouting her in Stockholm. Karlsson, who never had direct contact with Epstein, filed criminal complaints earlier this year. Siad’s lawyer, Ménya Arab-Tigrine, maintained his innocence, stating that he strongly denied all allegations and described him as a victim of false accusations. According to the lawyer, Siad died of a heart attack.
In interviews, Siad described his dealings with Epstein as purely professional. He claimed he was unaware of Epstein’s criminal activities and insisted that he did not recruit anyone who was subsequently abused. Siad also told French media that he viewed his work as scouting modeling talent for legitimate casting sessions, including for well-known brands.
Emails from the Epstein files revealed Siad as one of Epstein’s most consistent correspondents, reporting on prospective women mostly by nationality rather than by name. He travelled extensively across Europe, particularly Eastern European countries, to seek models for Epstein’s network. The emails showed frequent communication with Epstein, who inquired about “new girls” and requested updates on potential candidates. Siad sometimes described women by their apparent youthfulness.
Siad was also connected with Jean-Luc Brunel, a high-profile modelling agent who was arrested in France in 2020 on similar charges related to Epstein’s sex trafficking ring. Brunel was found dead in his prison cell in 2022, having denied the charges against him.
The circumstances of Siad’s death have sparked reactions from those seeking justice. Karlsson expressed frustration over his passing, saying the effort to hold him accountable was close to fruition. French prosecutors continue to examine the Epstein files in hopes of advancing investigations into those involved in the trafficking network.