Prince Andrew 'uncooperative' over Epstein inquiry, US prosecutor says

Prince Andrew in January 2020Image copyright
EPA

The Duke of York has provided “zero cooperation” over the Jeffrey Epstein sex trafficking inquiry, a US prosecutor has said.

His lawyers have been contacted by prosecutors and the FBI, who want to interview him, according to US Attorney Geoffrey Berman.

Prince Andrew has said he did not see or suspect any suspicious behaviour when visiting Epstein’s homes.

Buckingham Palace has been approached for a comment.

Convicted US sex offender Epstein took his own life in a jail cell in August, aged 66, while awaiting trial on sex trafficking and conspiracy charges.

  • Explained: Who was Jeffrey Epstein?
  • Timeline: Prince Andrew’s links to Epstein

Speaking at a news conference outside Epstein’s New York mansion, Mr Berman – who is overseeing the investigation – said: “To date, Prince Andrew has provided zero cooperation.”

He added that the investigation is “moving forward”.

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News Syndication

Image caption

Prince Andrew has said he regrets meeting Epstein for a final time in 2010

The prince announced in November that he was stepping back from royal duties for the “foreseeable future” because the Epstein scandal had become a “major disruption” to the Royal Family.

At the time, he said he was “willing to help any appropriate law enforcement agency”.

His announcement followed criticism for his BBC Newsnight interview. He was accused of lacking empathy for Epstein’s victims and failing to show regret over his friendship with the disgraced financier.

Virginia Giuffre, who claims Epstein trafficked her, has said she was “horrified and ashamed” by an alleged sexual encounter with Prince Andrew in 2001.

Prince Andrew emphatically denies any form of sexual contact or relationship with Virginia Giuffre and says any claim to the contrary is false and without foundation.

He said he has no recollection of ever meeting her.

source: bbc.com