A former Metropolitan Police officer who provided close protection for Prince Andrew during his contentious stay at Jeffrey Epstein's Manhattan residence is set to give evidence to US lawmakers investigating the late financier's criminal network.
Royal Protection Officer Drawn into Epstein Investigation
The officer, whose identity remains protected, was part of Prince Andrew's security detail during the Duke of York's 2010 visit to Epstein's $77 million Upper East Side townhouse. This occurred after Epstein had already been convicted of sex offences, making the royal's decision to stay with the registered sex offender highly controversial.
According to sources familiar with the investigation, the US House Oversight Committee seeks to question the officer about security arrangements, visitors to the property, and any observations about activities within the mansion during Prince Andrew's stay.
Mounting Pressure on Royal Family
This development represents a significant escalation in the ongoing Epstein scandal's implications for the British royal family. The officer's testimony could potentially provide new insights into Prince Andrew's relationship with Epstein and the extent of his interactions within the financier's circle.
The summons comes as part of a broader congressional investigation into how Epstein operated his extensive sex trafficking network and which powerful figures might have enabled or benefited from his crimes.
Timeline of Events
- 2010: Prince Andrew stays at Epstein's New York mansion despite his 2008 conviction
- 2015: Virginia Giuffre first alleges she was forced to have sex with the Duke
- 2019: Epstein dies in prison while awaiting trial
- 2022: Prince Andrew settles civil case with Giuffre out of court
- 2024: Metropolitan Police officer summoned to testify before US Congress
A spokesperson for the Metropolitan Police declined to comment on individual officers or their assignments, citing operational security concerns. Buckingham Palace has maintained its position of not commenting on ongoing legal matters.
