The Metropolitan Police is facing intense scrutiny following the emergence of a controversial email that appears to show officers discussing a potential "smear campaign" against Prince Andrew during their investigation into sexual assault allegations.
Explosive Email Correspondence Revealed
According to documents obtained by The Independent, a senior Met officer sent an email referencing what was described as "the media strategy" regarding the Duke of York. The correspondence, dated during the height of the investigation into claims made by Virginia Giuffre, suggests discussions about undermining the royal's credibility were taking place within police ranks.
Buckingham Palace Reaction
Sources close to Buckingham Palace have expressed "deep concern" over the revelations, with one insider describing the email as "deeply disturbing" if accurate. The palace has maintained that Prince Andrew has consistently denied all allegations against him and cooperated with relevant investigations.
Timeline of Key Events
- 2015: Virginia Giuffre first publicly alleges she was trafficked to Prince Andrew
- 2019: The Duke steps back from royal duties following BBC Newsnight interview
- 2021: Metropolitan Police launches review of evidence
- 2022: Prince Andrew settles civil case out of court
Police Accountability Questions
Policing experts have raised serious questions about the propriety of such discussions within the Met. "Any suggestion of officers planning to influence public perception of an investigation subject is extremely concerning," noted a former senior police ethics advisor.
The Metropolitan Police has declined to comment on the specific email but maintains that all investigations are conducted "fairly and impartially." However, transparency campaigners are demanding a full inquiry into the matter.
Broader Implications
This revelation comes at a sensitive time for the monarchy and for police credibility in the UK. With public trust in both institutions under scrutiny, the emergence of this email threatens to further damage confidence in how high-profile cases are handled.
Legal experts suggest that if proven, such discussions could have implications for other high-profile cases handled by the force and may prompt reviews of previous investigations.
