Lawyers for alleged Prince Andrew trafficking victim now in contact with Police
The Police confirmed that they are “engaging” with the lawyers of a woman who claims she was trafficked for sex at Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor’s address in Windsor.
In its first update on Friday, Thames Valley Police emphasised that if she wishes to report her allegations, they will be “taken seriously and handled with care, sensitivity and respect for her privacy and her right for anonymity.”
This comes as the police, who arrested the former Duke of York in February on suspicion of misconduct in public office, said they are actively working with the US Department of Justice (DOJ) to gather intelligence related to the investigation.
The investigation is examining a number of aspects of alleged misconduct following the release of files under the Epstein Files Transparency Act in the US, which sparked fallout over the former Duke and the former ambassador to the US, Lord Peter Mandelson.
Days after the ousted Royal was arrested, Mandelson was taken into custody by the Met Police on suspicion of misconduct in public office.
According to national guidance, the police cannot confirm the identities of individuals arrested, but both men were photographed during their arrests.
Police seek information
Thames Valley Police assistant chief constable, Oliver Wright, said: “Our misconduct in public office investigation is continuing. Misconduct in public office is a crime that can take different forms, making this a complex investigation.”
“Our team of very experienced detectives are working meticulously through a significant amount of information that has come in from the public and other sources. We are committed to conducting a thorough investigation into all reasonable lines of enquiry, wherever they may lead.”
Wright encouraged anyone with information to get in touch, adding, “I understand the high level of interest in this work, but please be patient as we continue to actively progress our investigation.”
Mountbatten-Windsor has consistently denied any sexual wrongdoing. He called on his trusty lawyers, Blackfords’ Gary Bloxsome and Jennifer Richardson, alongside Matrix Chambers’ Clare Montgomery KC, for the investigation.
Mandelson has also denied any impropriety, with his lawyers at Mishcon de Reya insisting the arrest was unnecessary.