The Metropolitan Police are investigating claims that Prince Andrew asked a bodyguard to gather information about Virginia Giuffre just hours before a controversial photo of them surfaced. Leaked emails indicate he provided the bodyguard with Giuffre’s birth date and social security number, raising serious concerns.
Energy Secretary Ed Miliband deemed these claims disturbing and stressed the need for an investigation. He stated, “This is absolutely not how close protection officers should be used.”
The emails, reported by the Mail on Sunday, suggest that Andrew implied Giuffre had a criminal record, which her family has contested. No evidence suggests the officer acted on his request.
In response to the media scrutiny, a spokesperson for the Metropolitan Police confirmed they are looking into the allegations. This comes amid ongoing pressure on Andrew over his ties to Jeffrey Epstein and Ghislaine Maxwell, with reports of Andrew being connected to another of Epstein’s victims.
Recently, Andrew stepped back from his royal duties and relinquished his titles, stating that he wanted to take a further step in light of his situation. “I have discussed this with His Majesty,” he said, insisting he vigorously denies the accusations against him.
Giuffre’s family has voiced their desire for further action. Her brother, Sky Roberts, called for King Charles to strip Andrew of his title entirely. He emphasized that those implicated should face accountability for the survivors.
In her posthumous memoir, Giuffre reflected on her early encounters with Prince Andrew and described his sense of entitlement. This narrative adds context to the scandal, showing a longstanding pattern of behavior.
The investigation into Andrew’s actions highlights ongoing discussions about accountability within the royal family. As society holds public figures to higher standards, the situation raises questions about the balance of privilege and responsibility.
For more in-depth coverage, you can check The Guardian and follow the ongoing developments.