Newly released emails reveal that Jeffrey Epstein attempted to blackmail Sarah Ferguson after she publicly distanced herself from him. The correspondence shows that Epstein's legal team sent a letter to Ferguson's lawyer in April 2011, urging her to reconsider her stance.
Legal letter described as 'threat'
Ferguson's representative described the letter as a threat, noting that its tone was 'somewhat alarming' and could be construed as attempted blackmail. Other emails discussed ways to 'turn up the heat' on the former Duchess of York.
This comes after parts of the Epstein files were released, revealing Ferguson's close relationship with the convicted paedophile. She had publicly condemned him in March 2011, saying: 'I personally, on behalf of myself, deeply regret that Jeffrey Epstein became involved in any way with me.'
Apology email and aftermath
In an email sent in April 2011, Ferguson apologized to Epstein, claiming she 'never used the P (paedophilia) word about you' and that he had been a 'steadfast, generous and supreme friend.' Her spokesperson later said she was 'taken in by his lies' and that the email was sent to avoid defamation threats.
Ferguson was stripped of her title and forced to vacate Royal Lodge in Windsor following the revelations. Her spokesperson reiterated that she regrets her association and condemns Epstein's actions.
