New claim Epstein sent woman to UK to have sex with Andrew is under police review | BBC News

Key Concepts

• Jeffrey Epstein: Convicted sex offender at the center of the allegations.
• Andrew, Duke of York: Accused of sexual encounter facilitated by Epstein; previously denied wrongdoing.
• Sarah, Duchess of York (Sarah Ferguson): Linked to Epstein through emails requesting access to royal properties and past scandal involving selling access to her ex-husband.
• Epstein Files: Recently released documents detailing Epstein’s network and interactions.
• Royal Lodge (Windsor): Former Prince Andrew’s residence, alleged site of the new sexual encounter allegation.
• Tempame's Valley Police: Investigating the latest allegations.

New Allegation of Sexual Encounter & Police Assessment

Tempame's Valley Police are currently assessing information regarding a new allegation that Jeffrey Epstein arranged for a woman to travel to the UK for a sexual encounter with Prince Andrew at Royal Lodge in Windsor in 2010. This claim was initially reported by the BBC and brought to the police’s attention by the anti-monarchy group, Republic. Prince Andrew has not yet responded to this specific accusation, but has previously issued strong denials regarding similar allegations. The timing of this assessment coincides with the release of further details from the recently unsealed “Epstein files.”

Prince Edward’s Response & Focus on Victims

During an education summit in Dubai, Prince Edward was questioned about the unfolding developments. He deflected direct comment, stating, “Well, the best will in the world. I’m not sure this is the audience that is probably the least bit interested in that. So, they all came here to listen to about education solving the future.” However, he emphasized the importance of remembering the victims, stating, “It’s all really important always to remember the victims and… who are the victims in all this. A lot of victims in this.” This statement highlights a focus on the impact on those harmed by Epstein’s crimes.

Email Evidence: Access Requests & Royal Security

The released Epstein files contain email correspondence revealing attempts to secure access for Prince Andrew’s security detail to Epstein’s Manhattan home in 2010. An email from an unknown sender to Epstein’s assistant requested a “temporary code” for the Duke’s protection officer, Julian, and accompanying officers to enter and exit Epstein’s residence. Prince Andrew claimed he was in New York at the time to end his friendship with Epstein. Another email, directly from Epstein to Sarah Ferguson, requested her assistance in gaining access to Buckingham Palace: “Sarah, could you ask one of the girls to show Buckingham? Thanks.” This demonstrates Epstein’s attempts to leverage connections within the royal family.

Sarah Ferguson’s Troubled History & Closeness to Epstein

The report details Sarah Ferguson’s past issues with exploiting her royal connections. In 2010, she was caught in a newspaper sting operation accepting £500,000 in exchange for offering access to her ex-husband, Prince Andrew. The current Epstein files reveal a level of closeness to Epstein that is described as “especially damaging” to her reputation. Commentators suggest she should be compelled to provide evidence to the Senate, law enforcement, and victim’s lawyers, labeling her a “material witness.” One commentator described her as having “run out of her nine lives,” suggesting her ability to recover from scandal may be exhausted.

Lack of Response & Continued Disgrace

Neither Prince Andrew nor Sarah Ferguson have publicly responded to the specific details emerging from the Epstein documents. The report concludes that each revealed email and written communication continues to bring “added disgrace and embarrassment” to both individuals.