The Metropolitan Police have stated that no investigation has been initiated against Prince Andrew, despite his name being mentioned among several associates of Jeffrey Epstein in recently unsealed court documents. While these documents name many of Epstein’s associates, it’s important to note that many are not accused of any wrongdoing.
In the unsealed documents, a testimony from 2016 by Johanna Sjoberg claims that Prince Andrew touched her breast in 2001 at Epstein’s Manhattan apartment. Buckingham Palace has consistently denied these allegations, describing them as “categorically untrue.”
Following the release of these documents, Republic, a group advocating for the abolition of the monarchy, reported Prince Andrew to the police. The group’s CEO, Graham Smith, has urged the Metropolitan Police to open an investigation and called for a public statement from the King on the issue. Smith emphasized the lack of a serious criminal investigation or interviews with the accused or other witnesses, questioning the absence of action.
The Metropolitan Police’s statement highlights their awareness of the Epstein court documents and their readiness to assess any new and relevant information. However, as of now, they have not launched an investigation into Prince Andrew.
Jeffrey Epstein, a disgraced financier accused of abusing underage girls, was found dead in his cell in 2019 while awaiting trial on sex trafficking charges. Ghislaine Maxwell is currently serving a 20-year prison sentence for her role in recruiting and grooming teenagers for Epstein.
Prince Andrew has consistently denied all allegations against him. In 2022, he settled a civil case with Virginia Giuffre, who claimed she was sexually assaulted by the prince when she was 17, with the settlement reportedly worth up to £12 million and carrying no admission of guilt.
Buckingham Palace, which ceased speaking on behalf of the Duke after he stepped down from royal duties in 2019 due to his association with Epstein, has not commented on the recent document release. This ongoing situation underscores the complexities surrounding high-profile allegations and the challenges in navigating legal and public scrutiny.
