Should Police Investigate Andrew? Insights from Former Victims' Commissioner

Former victims' commissioner Dame Vera Baird has urged the police to "start properly investigating" the ties between Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor and Jeffrey Epstein, highlighting newfound evidence and the need for a thorough inquiry. This comes as calls for a police investigation intensify following revelations about Epstein's activities in the UK and the alleged trafficking of victims.

Last updated: 6 October 2023 (BST)

What’s happening now

The situation surrounding Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor, the Duke of York, has escalated as calls for a police investigation into his alleged links with Jeffrey Epstein intensify. Dame Vera Baird, who previously held the position of victims' commissioner, expressed her concerns over the lack of investigation into the allegations. She claims that the landscape has changed dramatically due to new evidence that has come to light. Former Prime Minister Gordon Brown has also joined the chorus, urging the Metropolitan Police to reevaluate Epstein's connections to the UK, particularly regarding the potential trafficking of victims.

Key takeaways

Dame Vera Baird is calling for a proper investigation into Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor's ties to Jeffrey Epstein.
Former Prime Minister Gordon Brown has echoed these calls, highlighting the need for a police inquiry.
New evidence suggests that Epstein's activities in the UK may have involved British victims.

Timeline: how we got here

Key events leading to the current situation include:

1990s-2018: 87 flights linked to Jeffrey Epstein reportedly arrive or depart from UK airports.
2008: Epstein is convicted of a child sex offence.
December 2022: A BBC investigation uncovers details of flights allegedly transporting victims.
October 2023: Dame Vera Baird and Gordon Brown publicly call for a renewed police investigation.

What’s new vs what’s known

New today/this week

Recent statements from Dame Vera Baird highlight new evidence regarding Epstein's operations in the UK, including references to Stansted Airport being used for transporting women. Additionally, an email from Ghislaine Maxwell has surfaced, seemingly confirming the authenticity of a controversial photograph of Andrew with Virginia Giuffre.

What was already established

Previously, allegations surrounding Andrew's involvement with Epstein and his alleged victims have been met with denial. Andrew has consistently denied any wrongdoing, and the Metropolitan Police previously stated that investigations were limited due to the alleged offences occurring abroad.

Impact for the UK

Consumers and households

The implications of these revelations extend beyond the royal family, sparking public discussions about accountability, victim rights, and the handling of sexual abuse allegations in the UK. The general public may demand greater transparency and action from authorities regarding high-profile figures.

Businesses and jobs

For businesses connected to the royal family or operating in sectors tied to public relations, this situation could lead to reputational risks. Companies may need to reconsider their associations and sponsorships in light of ongoing controversies.

Policy and regulation

Calls for a police inquiry could prompt changes in how sexual abuse allegations are investigated, particularly concerning high-profile individuals. Greater scrutiny may lead to policy reforms aimed at enhancing victim protections and ensuring thorough investigations.

Numbers that matter

87: Flights linked to Epstein reported arriving or departing from UK airports between the early 1990s and 2018.
90: Documented instances of British girls allegedly on Epstein's flights, including 15 after his 2008 conviction.
2008: Year Epstein was convicted of a child sex offence, raising questions about ongoing activities.

Definitions and jargon buster

Epstein, Jeffrey: A convicted sex offender who was known to associate with various high-profile individuals.
Victims' Commissioner: An official role in England and Wales aimed at ensuring victims’ voices are heard and their rights are protected.
Trafficking: The illegal movement of people, typically for the purposes of forced labour or sexual exploitation.

How to think about the next steps

Near term (0–4 weeks)

As the calls for investigation gain momentum, it is likely that the Metropolitan Police will conduct assessments of the new evidence presented by Baird and Brown. This could lead to renewed public scrutiny of Andrew's past actions.

Medium term (1–6 months)

Depending on the outcomes of any investigations, there could be significant implications for Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor, including possible legal challenges or further public disclosures regarding his connections to Epstein.

Signals to watch

Responses from the Metropolitan Police regarding any new investigations.
Public statements or legal actions taken by Epstein's alleged victims.
Further disclosures related to documents or evidence from the US concerning Epstein's operations.

Practical guidance

Do

Stay informed about developments in the investigation and any official statements from authorities.
Support organisations that advocate for victims of sexual abuse and trafficking.
Engage in discussions around accountability for high-profile individuals.

Don’t

Ignore the significance of the allegations and the broader implications for society.
Jump to conclusions before all evidence is reviewed and assessed.
Dismiss the voices of victims seeking justice.

Checklist

Review recent articles and reports regarding the allegations against Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor.
Monitor the progress of any police investigations and related news.
Consider supporting initiatives aimed at improving victim rights and protections.

Risks, caveats, and uncertainties

The situation remains fluid, with many unknown factors that could affect the outcome of any investigations. Allegations regarding high-profile figures often lead to complex legal and social ramifications. It is essential to approach the topic with a balanced view, acknowledging that allegations must be thoroughly investigated before any conclusions are drawn.

Bottom line

The calls for a renewed investigation into Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor's connections to Jeffrey Epstein reflect growing public concern over accountability and victim rights. As new evidence emerges, the need for thorough inquiry becomes increasingly important, highlighting the broader implications for society regarding how sexual abuse cases are handled.

FAQs

What are the allegations against Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor?

Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor is facing allegations of links to Jeffrey Epstein, specifically regarding claims that he was involved with Epstein's trafficking of victims. The calls for investigation have intensified following new evidence.

What role has Dame Vera Baird played in this situation?

Dame Vera Baird, the former victims' commissioner, has called for a thorough investigation into Andrew's connections with Epstein, citing new evidence and the need to protect victims.

How has the public responded to these allegations?

The public response has included calls for greater accountability from authorities and a renewed focus on the rights of victims. There is significant interest in how the police will handle the investigations moving forward.