Metropolitan Police Face Renewed Calls to Reopen Andrew Investigation After Latest Epstein Files Disclosure
The Metropolitan Police are facing mounting pressure to reopen their investigation into Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor following the latest release of documents related to disgraced financier Jeffrey Epstein. US officials disclosed a significant batch of files on Friday that included photographs and correspondence directly involving the former royal.
Compelling Visual Evidence and Correspondence Emerges
The newly released documents contain several photographs that appear to show Andrew on all fours leaning over an unidentified woman, presenting potentially significant visual evidence. Additionally, the files include email exchanges between Andrew and Epstein discussing what was described as a "beautiful" Russian woman, along with invitations extended to Epstein for visits to Buckingham Palace.
This latest disclosure has prompted immediate calls for renewed investigation from prominent legal figures representing Epstein's victims. Gloria Allred, a lawyer who has represented twenty-seven of Epstein's victims, told the Mail on Sunday that "The Metropolitan Police should reopen their investigation of Andrew." She further suggested that Andrew should voluntarily speak to Congress to assist survivors in understanding what occurred at Epstein's various residences.
Additional Allegations Surface Amid Ongoing Scrutiny
Simultaneously, a second woman has come forward claiming she was sent by Epstein to the United Kingdom specifically to have a sexual encounter with Andrew in 2010. While no supporting evidence has been presented for this latest allegation, it adds to the growing body of claims surrounding Andrew's relationship with the convicted sex offender.
The Metropolitan Police have previously investigated multiple allegations against Andrew, including claims that he sought assistance from his Met Police bodyguard to gather compromising information about Virginia Giuffre. Giuffre had alleged she was trafficked by Epstein and forced to have sexual relations with Andrew in London, claims which Andrew has consistently and vehemently denied.
Previous Investigations and Changing Circumstances
Despite multiple reviews conducted in 2016, 2019, 2021, and 2022, the Metropolitan Police have consistently decided against launching full criminal investigations. In December, the force stated that their assessment "has not revealed any additional evidence of criminal acts or misconduct" and suggested that other international authorities were better positioned to examine the allegations.
However, political figures are now questioning whether the circumstances have sufficiently changed to warrant renewed investigation. Rachael Maskell, the Labour MP for York Central, told BBC Radio 4's Broadcasting House programme that "It is quite strange that the investigation was dropped because the titles were dropped." She emphasised that the seriousness of allegations involving trafficking and sexual exploitation should transcend considerations of royal status or titles.
Broader Political and Royal Implications
The renewed scrutiny follows Andrew's multi-million pound settlement with Virginia Giuffre in 2022 to resolve a civil sexual assault claim, despite his continued insistence that he never met her. The publication of Giuffre's posthumous memoir and the ongoing release of Epstein estate documents have maintained intense focus on Andrew's relationship with the late financier.
This sustained attention ultimately led to King Charles officially stripping his brother of both his HRH style and prince title. Labour leader Sir Keir Starmer has added his voice to those calling for accountability, stating that Andrew should be prepared to testify before the US Congress regarding his connections to Epstein.
The Metropolitan Police and representatives for Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor have been approached for comment regarding the latest developments and renewed calls for investigation.
