The Duke of York, Prince Andrew, may soon be required to give sworn testimony to US lawmakers regarding his connections to the late financier and convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein, according to his legal representative.
This development comes as part of an ongoing investigation into Epstein's international sex trafficking ring, which has ensnared numerous high-profile figures.
Legal Pressure Mounts
Andrew's attorney confirmed that the royal could be deposed under oath, though no formal request has yet been received. The potential testimony would likely focus on the nature of the Duke's relationship with Epstein and what knowledge, if any, he had of the financier's criminal activities.
This news follows years of scrutiny over Andrew's friendship with Epstein, which culminated in the royal paying millions to settle a civil sexual assault case brought by Virginia Giuffre, one of Epstein's accusers.
Palace in Damage Control
Buckingham Palace has consistently denied any wrongdoing by the Duke, maintaining that he has cooperated fully with all legal inquiries. However, this potential deposition represents a significant escalation in the legal challenges facing the disgraced royal.
Legal experts suggest that if compelled to testify, Andrew would have to answer questions about:
- His visits to Epstein's properties
- The nature of their friendship
- Any knowledge of Epstein's illegal activities
- His controversial public statements about the case
What This Means for the Royal Family
The prospect of a senior royal testifying under oath in a foreign court would be unprecedented in modern times, potentially creating a constitutional crisis for the monarchy. The Palace has worked tirelessly to distance the institution from the scandal, stripping Andrew of his military titles and royal patronages in 2022.
As this story develops, all eyes will be on both sides of the Atlantic to see whether this deposition proceeds and what revelations might emerge from it.
