'D.C. Madam' Dies in Apparent Suicide

Deborah Jeane Palfrey, who was convicted of operating an escort service that supplied prostitutes to Washington, D.C., officials, allegedly hanged herself in Florida, police said yesterday.

Palfrey, known as the "D.C. madam," was found yesterday morning in Tarpon Springs, Fla., when police said they responded to a call at her mother's home, authorities said.

"The victim of an apparent suicide by hanging has been identified as Deborah Jean Palfrey," Tarpon Springs police said in a statement.

Palfrey, 52, was found by her mother, Blanche Palfrey, 76, police said.

Police Captain Jeffrey P. Young said that the Blanche Palfrey had not noticed that her daughter was despondent or was exhibiting any indications of suicidal behavior.