The Metropolitan Police have initiated an inquiry into media reports alleging that Prince Andrew attempted to gather personal information about Virginia Giuffre, one of his accusers, using his police protection officers. The police stated they are “aware of media reporting and are actively looking into the claims made.”
Giuffre, who took her own life earlier this year, had accused Prince Andrew of sexual exploitation when she was a minor, specifically alleging that she was forced to have sexual encounters with him on three occasions in 2001. These incidents allegedly took place at the residence of Ghislaine Maxwell, a close associate of Jeffrey Epstein, who is currently serving a 20-year prison sentence for sex trafficking.
Recent reports suggest that Prince Andrew requested his police protection officer to investigate Giuffre just before a newspaper published a photograph of their first meeting in February 2011. Allegations surfaced that he provided the officer with her date of birth and social security number. Energy Secretary Ed Miliband expressed concern over the situation, stating that if the allegations are true, it raises serious questions about the use of police protection officers.
On a related note, Prince Andrew recently announced his decision to relinquish his royal titles, including the Duke of York, amid ongoing scrutiny regarding his past associations. He previously stepped back from royal duties and lost the HRH title. His decision comes as media attention continues to focus on the legal and personal implications of his past.
In connection with this case, Giuffre’s brother commented that she would have been proud of developments regarding Prince Andrew’s titles, urging for further accountability measures. A memoir by Giuffre, which is set to be released soon, may bring additional scrutiny to her claims against the prince and his connections to Epstein.
Source: https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/c3970mxwz9vo?at_medium=RSS&at_campaign=rss