Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor, previously known as Prince Andrew, is facing fresh scrutiny amid allegations that he may have played a role in enabling the late Jeffrey Epstein to commit sexual abuse years before the well-publicized case involving Virginia Giuffre. This development comes after a victim's legal team spoke to The Mail on Sunday, providing new insights into the depth of Andrew's association with Epstein.
The victim, whose identity remains protected under legal anonymity, reportedly confided in Andrew during the late 1990s about Epstein's "inappropriate" behavior. Her attorney, Perry Wander, indicated that Andrew was not surprised at the revelation, hinting at a prior undisclosed allegation. Despite being aware of Epstein's conduct, Andrew purportedly encouraged the woman to remain in contact with Epstein and his associate, Ghislaine Maxwell, suggesting she spend time with them and even travel on Epstein's private jet.
The woman later recounted being sexually abused by Epstein at his Palm Beach mansion and on his private Caribbean island. She was among the last to receive compensation from Epstein's estate, which was valued at £500 million at the time of his death in 2019.
According to Wander, Andrew had met the actress in 1999, and their relationship spanned multiple encounters, including a lunch at Buckingham Palace. It was during a visit to Windsor Castle in October of the same year that Andrew introduced her to Epstein and Maxwell. When the woman expressed concerns about her safety around Epstein, Andrew is said to have reassured her, advising her to heed Epstein's advice and spend time with him and Maxwell.
These revelations mark the first instance in which Andrew is accused of actively facilitating Epstein's access to potential victims. The timing of these allegations is critical, as they precede the infamous Giuffre case, which gained international attention and ended tragically with Giuffre's death earlier this year. Giuffre had accused Andrew of forcing her into sexual acts, allegations that he has consistently denied.
The unnamed woman's choice to come forward was reportedly inspired by Giuffre's courage and her own desire to support other survivors. Despite her initial reluctance, the woman has joined the chorus of voices against Andrew. Documents disclosed this month revealed that the woman sent Epstein a supportive message following his arrest in July 2019, a message her lawyer attributes to a "trauma bond," highlighting the complex psychological impact of Epstein's manipulation.
This intensifying scrutiny comes on the heels of Andrew being stripped of all royal titles last month after evidence emerged contradicting his statements about his contact with Epstein. The new allegations may amplify calls for Andrew to testify before the U.S. Congress about his relationship with Epstein and Maxwell.
The case serves as a stark reminder of the enduring legacy of Epstein's actions and the potential complicity of his associates. As investigations continue, the world watches closely to see what further details may emerge regarding this high-profile saga of abuse and power.
