Death of ‘D.C. Madam’ A Suicide?

A woman who police believe to be Deborah Jeane Palfrey, known as the “D.C. Madam,” was found dead today, Tarpon Springs, Florida, police said.

The body has not been positively identified.

“Detectives are investigating an apparent suicide of a (white female) that appears to be in her early 50s,” police said in a news release.

Suicide notes were found near the body in a small storage shed next to a mobile home, police said.

Palfrey was reportedly staying at the home of her mother, who owns the property where the body was found, police said.

The 52-year-old woman was convicted last month in connection with a high-end prostitution ring catering to Washington’s elite.

She was found guilty of money laundering, racketeering and mail fraud. She was awaiting sentencing with a potential of 50 years in jail.

At least one lawmaker, Louisiana Senator David Vitter, a Republican, turned up in the phone records of her business, while State Department official Randall Tobias resigned in May 2007 after confirming he patronized Palfrey’s business.

Palfrey had unsuccessfully argued that her business was a legitimate, legal escort service.

More here.