Lawyers representing a second woman who claims she was dispatched to the United Kingdom by the late financier Jeffrey Epstein for a purported sexual encounter with the then Prince Andrew have called upon King Charles's legal representatives to deliver a "real apology." This demand underscores the ongoing fallout from the Epstein scandal, which continues to implicate high-profile figures.
Legal Team Seeks Accountability from the Palace
Brittany Henderson, from the US law firm Edwards Henderson, issued a statement to the Press Association, emphasising the need for the royal family to address these allegations transparently. She argued that Prince Andrew's influence stemmed solely from his royal status, and his association with Epstein and Ghislaine Maxwell has been widely acknowledged for years.
Henderson stated, "Whether he comes to the United States to testify is irrelevant; we hardly need more people over here spinning grand stories." She urged the king's legal team to engage in a good-faith effort to understand the accusations, meet with the alleged victims, issue a sincere apology, and ensure fair compensation for any wrongdoing.
Details of the Alleged Encounter
Brad Edwards, another lawyer from the same firm, previously disclosed to the BBC that his client, described as non-British and in her twenties at the time, spent a night with Andrew at Royal Lodge in 2010. Following this encounter, she was reportedly given a tour of Buckingham Palace, adding a layer of institutional involvement to the claims.
Emails Reveal Depth of Epstein's Ties to Sarah Ferguson
This latest allegation emerges alongside the release of over three million documents by the US Department of Justice, which shed light on the close relationship between Epstein and Andrew's ex-wife, Sarah Ferguson. The emails, published on Friday, illustrate a pattern of financial and personal exchanges that spanned years.
In one correspondence from 2009, Ferguson expressed gratitude to Epstein, writing, "Thank you Jeffrey for being the brother I have always wished for." Another email from 2010 reads, "You are a legend. I really don't have the words to describe, my love, gratitude for your generosity and kindness. Xx I am at your service. Just marry me."
Financial Requests and Social Engagements
The documents also reveal instances where Ferguson sought financial assistance from Epstein. In 2009, after a business venture failed, she urgently requested £20,000 for rent, warning that the landlord might go to the press if unpaid. Additionally, emails indicate that a lunch was organised in July 2009 between Ferguson, her daughters Beatrice and Eugenie, and Epstein, shortly after his release from prison on child sex offences.
Epstein's emails further suggest he helped Ferguson manage her creditors over 15 years, with one message from 2010 cryptically asking "ny?" and a reply joking about Eugenie's weekend activities. Another email from Epstein to hedge fund manager Glenn Dubin claimed Ferguson could arrange tea at Buckingham Palace or Windsor Castle.
Ferguson's Emotional Reactions and Speculations
In later communications, Ferguson appeared to congratulate Epstein on the birth of a "baby boy" in 2011, news she said came from "The Duke," possibly referring to Prince Andrew. She also expressed hurt, accusing Epstein of using her to get closer to Andrew, writing, "It was soo crystal clear to me that you were only friends with me to get to Andrew. And that really hurt me deeeply. More than you will know."
Royal Responses and Denials
Prince Andrew, now known as Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor, has consistently denied allegations of sexual misconduct, including those from Virginia Giuffre, with whom he settled a civil case for a reported $12 million without admitting liability. In October, Buckingham Palace announced he would be stripped of his royal titles and relocated from Royal Lodge, stating, "Their majesties wish to make clear that their thoughts and utmost sympathies have been, and will remain with, the victims and survivors of any and all forms of abuse."
As these revelations continue to surface, the pressure mounts on the royal family to address the broader implications of their connections to Epstein, with survivors and their legal teams demanding accountability and redress.
