Emails Show Andrew's Protection Officers Guarded Epstein's Celebrity Party
Newly released emails appear to reveal that two of Prince Andrew's Metropolitan Police protection officers were instructed to work security for a celebrity dinner party at Jeffrey Epstein's New York townhouse. The emails, among three million documents released by US officials, suggest the officers were tasked with guarding the door during the event, which allegedly honoured the former Duke of York.
Details of the Alleged Security Arrangements
According to the emails, the security details were coordinated for a party on December 2, 2010. An email from a redacted address to Epstein, sent the night before, stated: "The Duke's 2 protection officers along with the state security will all be here for tomorrows dinner party. Rich has given them instruction on the door. Do you wish Rich to stay for the party or is it ok for him to go home?" The subject line was "Security for party," and "Rich" is reportedly believed to be Richard Barnett, Epstein's engineer and security fixer.
Guests at the party allegedly included filmmaker Woody Allen, his wife Soon-Yi Previn, and comedian Chelsea Handler. Sir Mick Jagger was reportedly invited but unable to attend. This revelation comes as Prince Andrew was arrested by Norfolk Police on suspicion of misconduct in public office, though he was released under investigation 11 hours later while police conducted raids on his Norfolk and former Windsor homes.
Metropolitan Police Response and Ongoing Investigations
The Metropolitan Police has acknowledged the release of the Epstein documents and is actively assessing the information. In a statement, the force said it is aware of suggestions that London airports may have been used to facilitate human trafficking and sexual exploitation. They are seeking further details from law enforcement partners, including those in the United States.
Additionally, the Met is contacting former and serving officers who worked closely with Prince Andrew in a protection capacity. These officers have been asked to consider whether anything they saw or heard during their service could be relevant to ongoing reviews and to share any information that might assist investigations. The force has not charged anyone in relation to the Epstein files at this time.
Context of Andrew's Relationship with Epstein
Prince Andrew and Jeffrey Epstein were photographed walking together in Central Park in December 2010, around the time of the alleged party. In his infamous 2019 Newsnight interview, Andrew claimed he visited Epstein to cut ties with the convicted sex offender. When questioned about staying at Epstein's home, Andrew described it as a "convenient place to stay" and has consistently denied any wrongdoing.
The release of these emails adds to the scrutiny surrounding Andrew's associations and the broader Epstein case, highlighting concerns about the use of police resources and the involvement of public figures in events linked to the disgraced financier.
