Key points
- Emails reveal Andrew’s long ties to Epstein
- Andrew settles lawsuit with Virginia Giuffre
- New documents reignite sexual assault claims
LONDON: As the man once known as Prince Andrew became embroiled in the Jeffrey Epstein sex scandal, he sought to distance himself from the controversy. In one of many emails released, a message from “The Duke” to Epstein in 2011 reads: “I can’t take any more of this.”
Fourteen years later, Andrew, now stripped of all royal titles, including his princeship, faces eviction from his Windsor Castle residence. The release of new documents has reignited sexual assault allegations against him and exposed behind-the-scenes attempts to discredit his accuser, Virginia Roberts Giuffre, reports AP News.
Andrew, the second son of the late Queen Elizabeth II, has strongly denied all allegations from Giuffre, who tragically took her own life earlier this year. However, he settled a lawsuit with her for millions of dollars. His links to Epstein, who was convicted of soliciting prostitution in Florida, led to his resignation as Britain’s special trade envoy in 2011.
Sex trafficking
In 2019, when Epstein was arrested for sex trafficking, Giuffre accused Andrew of having sex with her when she was 17. Andrew’s attempt to clear his name with a BBC interview was widely criticised, particularly for his lack of empathy and implausible explanations about his ties to Epstein.
Recent revelations, including emails showing that Andrew’s association with Epstein lasted longer than he claimed, have undermined his denials. These emails also challenge his claim that a photograph of him with Giuffre was doctored. Epstein, in 2011 emails, dismissed Giuffre as a “liar” and suggested attacking her credibility.
When the Mail on Sunday sought comment in 2011, Epstein forwarded a request to “The Duke,” who responded: “Please make sure that every statement or legal letter states clearly that I am NOT involved.”
