Prince Andrew Being Investigated for Allegedly Asking Bodyguard to Obtain Accuser’s Personal Information: Report

Prince Andrew Investigated Over Alleged Request for Accuser’s Personal Data

Prince Andrew, the Duke of York, is reportedly the subject of a Metropolitan Police investigation following allegations that he asked one of his taxpayer-funded personal protection officers to gather private information about Virginia Giuffre. Giuffre has accused the royal of sexually abusing her when she was a teenager, an accusation that has sparked significant media attention and legal scrutiny.

According to a report by The Mail on Sunday published on October 19, leaked emails suggest that Andrew, 65, passed along Giuffre’s date of birth and Social Security number to his bodyguard. The emails also implied that Giuffre might have a criminal record in the United States, although her family has denied this claim. These emails were reportedly sent just hours before the release of a now-infamous 2011 photograph showing Andrew with an underage Giuffre. Tragically, Giuffre died by suicide in April at the age of 41.

The Mail on Sunday further noted that there is no evidence indicating the bodyguard acted on the alleged request. Nonetheless, the revelation has intensified public and official scrutiny of Andrew’s conduct.

Official Responses and Public Reactions

A spokesperson for the Metropolitan Police confirmed to The Guardian that they are “aware of media reporting and are actively looking into the claims made.” Buckingham Palace and the Metropolitan Police have not provided immediate comments to Fox News Digital regarding the investigation. A palace spokesperson reiterated that they do not comment on Prince Andrew as he is no longer a working royal.

The allegations have also drawn criticism from public officials. During an interview on BBC One’s “Sunday with Laura Kuenssberg,” UK Energy Secretary Ed Miliband described the situation as “deeply concerning” and emphasized the importance of investigating the claims. Miliband stated, “It’s absolutely not the way that close protection officers should be used,” highlighting the seriousness of the accusations.

Background: Prince Andrew’s Royal Titles and Legal Issues

These developments come shortly after Prince Andrew announced that he would relinquish his royal titles and honors amid ongoing accusations linking him to the late Jeffrey Epstein, a convicted sex offender who died in prison in 2019 while facing federal sex trafficking and conspiracy charges.

In a public statement, Andrew said, “In discussion with The King, and my immediate and wider family, we have concluded the continued accusations about me distract from the work of His Majesty and the Royal Family.” He added, “With His Majesty’s agreement, we feel I must now go a step further. I will therefore no longer use my title or the honours which have been conferred upon me.” Despite stepping back from public life, Andrew continues to hold the title of prince as the son of the late Queen Elizabeth, though his “His Royal Highness” style has been inactive since 2019.

Virginia Giuffre’s family welcomed Andrew’s decision, calling it a “vindication for our sister and survivors everywhere.” They urged King Charles to remove Andrew’s title entirely and described the move as a significant step toward justice for victims of Epstein’s trafficking network. The family also referenced recently surfaced emails between Epstein and Andrew from 2011, which contradict Andrew’s claim that he ceased contact with Epstein in 2010.

Legal Proceedings and Settlement

In 2021, Virginia Giuffre filed a sexual abuse lawsuit against Prince Andrew in New York. Andrew denied all allegations, claiming he never met Giuffre and suggesting the photograph of them together could be fabricated. After a U.S. judge denied Andrew’s attempt to dismiss the case, both parties reached an out-of-court settlement in February 2022. Andrew did not admit liability but agreed to pay an undisclosed sum to Giuffre and make a donation to a charity supporting abuse victims.

Conclusion

The investigation into Prince Andrew’s alleged request for his bodyguard to obtain personal information about Virginia Giuffre adds another layer of complexity to an already controversial case. As the Metropolitan Police continue their inquiry, the royal family faces ongoing public and legal challenges. For those interested in following this developing story and other high-profile legal investigations, stay tuned for updates and expert analysis.

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