Police Investigating Whether Prince Andrew Sought Dirt on Virginia Giuffre via Officer

The Metropolitan Police in London are actively investigating reports that Prince Andrew may have tried to enlist a police officer assigned to him as a bodyguard to dig up damaging information on Virginia Giuffre, his sexual assault accuser. The probe follows media reports suggesting that in 2011, Andrew sought to determine whether Giuffre had a criminal record, part of a broader effort to discredit her.

Background of the Investigation

The allegations come amid continued scrutiny of Andrew’s ties to Jeffrey Epstein, the convicted sex offender. Buckingham Palace announced last Friday that Andrew had agreed to relinquish the use of the Duke of York title and other remaining royal honors. This decision followed revelations that Andrew had maintained contact with Epstein longer than previously admitted.

According to reports, emails between Andrew and Epstein revealed that as late as February 28, 2011, Andrew had written to Epstein stating they were “in this together” and would “have to rise above it,” contradicting his earlier claims that contact had ended in 2010.

The inquiry by the Metropolitan Police is focused specifically on whether Andrew misused his position and access to law enforcement personnel to investigate Giuffre for personal gain, potentially constituting an abuse of power.

The Mail on Sunday Report

The Mail on Sunday reported that in 2011, shortly before a photograph showing Andrew with his arm around Giuffre—then partly undressed—was about to be published, the prince allegedly gave his bodyguard confidential details about Giuffre, including her date of birth and social security number. The intent, according to the report, was to uncover whether she had a “checkered past” that could be used to undermine her credibility.

It remains unclear whether the officer acted on this request. Giuffre’s family has stated that she did not have a criminal record, and the incident is being examined by the police as part of a broader investigation into potential misconduct by a senior member of the royal family.

Repercussions Within the Monarchy

Prince Andrew’s relinquishment of his titles and public roles has been part of a long-standing effort to insulate the monarchy from the scandals surrounding him. He gave up all public duties and charitable positions in November 2019 following a disastrous BBC interview in which he attempted to defend his friendship with Epstein and deny allegations of sexual misconduct involving Giuffre.

The recent email revelations and media coverage have intensified public scrutiny, fueling calls from Giuffre’s family for King Charles III to strip Andrew entirely of his royal title. Giuffre tragically died by suicide in April at the age of 41, leaving her family seeking justice and acknowledgment of her experiences.

Political and Public Reactions

British Energy Secretary Ed Miliband publicly commented on the seriousness of the allegations, stating on BBC programs that “a police officer should not be enlisted in a smear campaign.” He described the situation as “deeply concerning,” emphasizing the inappropriateness of using law enforcement resources for personal attacks.

Public opinion has largely been critical of Andrew, with many pointing to the long-standing pattern of questionable associations and alleged misuse of his royal privileges. The House of Windsor has repeatedly attempted to distance itself from Andrew, though scrutiny persists as details of his relationship with Epstein continue to emerge.

Legal Context and Previous Settlements

In 2022, Prince Andrew reached an out-of-court settlement with Giuffre after she filed a civil suit in New York. While he did not admit wrongdoing, Andrew did acknowledge Giuffre’s suffering as a victim of sex trafficking. He has consistently stated that he vigorously denies the allegations.

The recent investigation does not relate to the civil settlement itself but rather to potential misconduct in leveraging an official bodyguard to collect private information for personal benefit. If substantiated, it could carry significant legal and reputational implications for Andrew.

Broader Implications

This development underscores ongoing concerns about accountability for high-profile individuals, particularly members of the royal family. The alleged use of police resources for private purposes raises questions about the boundaries of privilege and the mechanisms by which public institutions are safeguarded against misuse.

Experts note that the investigation could take months, as police review documents, emails, and testimony related to Andrew’s actions in 2011. The scrutiny reflects a growing intolerance for abuses of power, particularly where alleged actions intersect with victim-blaming and attempts to silence survivors of sexual assault.

Moving Forward

As the Metropolitan Police continue their inquiry, attention is likely to remain on the broader legacy of Prince Andrew’s association with Epstein and his conduct regarding Giuffre. With the public and media closely following each development, the case highlights the continuing tension between royal privilege, accountability, and the pursuit of justice.

The ongoing coverage also coincides with the posthumous publication of Giuffre’s memoir, which promises to keep her story in the public eye and maintain pressure for transparency regarding the events surrounding her allegations.

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