Story perspectives

Paris Launches Dual Investigations into Epstein's Crimes

2/18/2026

Summary

Story summary

Paris prosecutors opened two new investigations into Jeffrey Epstein, one for sex abuse and one for financial crimes.
Prosecutor Laurence Beccuau of the Paris prosecutor's office said more than 3 million U.S. Justice Department documents will guide the probes and urged victims to come forward.
Former Culture Minister Jack Lang is under investigation for alleged tax fraud related to Epstein following his resignation from the Arab World Institute.

History

Historical Context

Following Jeffrey Epstein's 2019 arrest for sex trafficking, investigations revealed systemic failures in addressing sexual abuse cases. The U.S. Justice Department released over 3 million documents, exposing Epstein's extensive network and prompting global inquiries, including a probe into former French Culture Minister Jack Lang. This scrutiny reflects a rising demand for accountability among elite figures, potentially reshaping legal responses to sexual and financial crimes.

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Story summary

Paris prosecutors opened two new investigations into Jeffrey Epstein, one for sex abuse and one for financial crimes.
Prosecutor Laurence Beccuau of the Paris prosecutor's office said more than 3 million U.S. Justice Department documents will guide the probes and urged victims to come forward.
Former Culture Minister Jack Lang is under investigation for alleged tax fraud related to Epstein following his resignation from the Arab World Institute.

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