The United States Department of Justice made an extraordinary formal request to the British government in 2020, asking that Prince Andrew be compelled to answer questions under oath concerning his associations with the convicted sex trafficker Jeffrey Epstein and the disgraced fashion mogul Peter Nygard.
Formal Request for a 'Compelled' Interview
Among hundreds of documents from the Epstein investigation released by US authorities, a 'Request for Assistance' dated 3 April 2020 stands out. It was sent to the UK Government, urging officials to arrange for FBI agents to interview the then-Duke of York, formally named as 'HRH Prince Andrew Albert Christian Edward, the Duke of York'.
The document states that US authorities had uncovered evidence suggesting the royal's potential involvement in the sprawling investigations. Crucially, it notes that if Prince Andrew declined a voluntary interview, the US requested that UK authorities conduct a 'compelled interview of the witness under oath'.
Allegations and Investigative Focus
The request links Prince Andrew to two major criminal probes. Regarding the Epstein case, it cites allegations from one victim who claimed Ghislaine Maxwell introduced her to the Prince. It further asserts that Prince Andrew was present for certain interactions between the victim, Epstein, and Maxwell.
More damningly, the letter states: 'Finally, there is evidence that Prince Andrew engaged in sexual conduct involving one of Epstein's victims.' It also claims documentary evidence suggested the Duke had knowledge of Maxwell's role in recruiting females for sex acts with Epstein and others.
Concerning Peter Nygard, who was later jailed for sexual assault, the document notes Prince Andrew visited Nygard's Bahamas resort, Nygard Cay, a location tied to trafficking. US authorities sought to question him about these visits.
Witness Status and Potential Peril
While the Justice Department emphasised that Prince Andrew was considered a witness and not a target in either investigation, it issued a stark warning. Should he provide false information, he could face prosecution for perverting the course of justice in the UK or making a false statement in the US.
The letter concluded with a plea for confidentiality, warning that leaks could 'seriously jeopardize the investigations' by prompting evidence tampering. Prince Andrew has consistently and fiercely denied any wrongdoing.
