The Metropolitan Police has launched a stunning criminal investigation into Prince Andrew's former personal protection officer, plunging the Duke of York back into legal turmoil. The probe centres on allegations the royal bodyguard deliberately obstructed justice during the Virginia Giuffre sexual assault case.
Scotland Yard detectives are examining whether the officer, whose identity remains protected, interfered with attempts to serve legal documents to Prince Andrew from Ms Giuffre's legal team. This development represents one of the most serious law enforcement escalations in the long-running royal scandal.
Obstruction of Justice Allegations
According to legal sources, the investigation focuses on claims the protection officer actively prevented American lawyers from delivering crucial court papers to the Duke at his Royal Lodge residence in Windsor. This alleged interference occurred during the build-up to the landmark $12 million settlement between Prince Andrew and his accuser.
'This isn't just about poor judgement - we're looking at potential criminal obstruction of a judicial process,' revealed a senior police source familiar with the investigation. 'The evidence suggests deliberate attempts to shield Prince Andrew from proper legal service.'
Buckingham Palace in Damage Control Mode
The palace remains tight-lipped as royal aides scramble to contain the fallout. A Buckingham Palace spokesperson stated: 'We do not comment on ongoing police investigations.' However, sources indicate senior courtiers are 'deeply concerned' about the implications for the monarchy.
The investigation raises uncomfortable questions about:
- Whether palace staff received instructions to avoid legal service
- The extent of knowledge within royal households about the obstruction
- Potential consequences for other members of the royal protection team
Legal Experts Weigh In
Prominent human rights lawyer Geoffrey Robertson QC described the development as 'extraordinarily serious for the institution of monarchy.' He added: 'When police officers, even royal protection officers, are accused of perverting the course of justice, it strikes at the very heart of our legal system.'
The criminal probe comes nearly two years after Prince Andrew settled the civil case with Virginia Giuffre, who had accused him of sexual assault when she was 17 - allegations the Duke has consistently denied.
Metropolitan Police Commissioner Sir Mark Rowland now faces increasing pressure to clarify the scope of the investigation and whether it might extend to other members of the royal household.
