France opens wide-ranging probes into Epstein links

19 February, 12:41 AM
Europe
Jeffrey Epstein (Photo: U.S. Justice Department/Handout via REUTERS)

Jeffrey Epstein (Photo: U.S. Justice Department/Handout via REUTERS)

France has opened two broad investigations into possible human trafficking and financial crimes tied to contacts of Jeffrey Epstein after a large set of related files was released by the U.S. Justice Department, Reuters reported on Feb. 18.

Paris prosecutor Laure Beccuau said the inquiries will rely on publicly available materials and complaints filed by child-protection groups. One probe will focus on alleged human trafficking; the other will examine economic crimes, including money laundering, corruption, and tax fraud.

Beccuau’s office said it hopes the publicity surrounding the case will encourage trafficking victims who previously did not come forward to do so now.

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Reuters said five prosecutors will review the published files for signs that French citizens might have been involved in sexual or financial crimes. Authorities have already opened a preliminary investigation into former Culture Minister Jack Lang and his daughter, Caroline, on suspicion of tax fraud.

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