Prince Andrew: Maxwell Email Contradicts Pizza Express Alibi
Newly released documents appear to challenge previous statements made by Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor regarding a photograph depicting him with Virginia Giuffre. The authenticity of the photograph had been questioned by Andrew, who claimed in 2019 he was at a Pizza Express in Woking at the time it was allegedly taken.
Email Contradicts Previous Claims
An email purportedly sent by Ghislaine Maxwell to Jeffrey Epstein, released as part of the latest files from the US Department of Justice, seems to corroborate the circumstances surrounding the photograph. The email, dated January 10, 2015, contains a “draft statement” in which Maxwell addresses allegations of abuse involving an unidentified woman.
While the woman’s name is redacted, details within the email suggest it refers to Ms. Giuffre. Maxwell wrote that in 2001, the redacted individual met “a number of friends of mine including Prince Andrew” and that “a photograph was taken as I imagine she wanted to show it to friends and family.” Sky News has reached out to Andrew for comment.
Previous Allegations and Settlement
Virginia Giuffre, who died by suicide in April of last year, alleged that Andrew had sex with her when she was 17 and claimed she was trafficked by Epstein. Andrew has consistently denied these claims. In 2022, he reached an out-of-court settlement with Ms. Giuffre, which did not include any admission of liability or apology.
Further documents released alongside the email allege a separate incident involving Andrew, Epstein and an exotic dancer. A legal letter from March 23, 2011, claims Epstein introduced the dancer to Andrew, and the two men “then told my client they wanted to have a threesome” and “prevailed upon her to engage in various sex acts.” A later section of the letter references the men “satisfying themselves.” Sky News has also sought a response from Andrew regarding this specific claim.
Other Developments in the Epstein Case
Peter Mandelson, a prominent British figure, is now subject to a Metropolitan Police investigation following claims he leaked sensitive information to Epstein while in public office. This investigation stems from information contained within the same set of released documents. Sir Keir Starmer will be required to publish files related to Peter Mandelson’s appointment as the UK’s US ambassador after a government concession.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does the email from Ghislaine Maxwell state?
The email, dated January 10, 2015, contains a draft statement in which Maxwell defends herself against allegations of abuse by an unidentified woman, stating the woman met Prince Andrew in 2001 and a photograph was taken.
What was Andrew’s previous explanation regarding the photograph?
Andrew previously claimed in 2019 that he could not have been in the photograph because he was at a Pizza Express in Woking at the time.
What other allegations have surfaced from the released documents?
A legal letter from 2011 alleges Andrew and Epstein engaged in a threesome with an exotic dancer, and Peter Mandelson is under investigation for allegedly leaking sensitive information to Epstein.
What implications might these newly surfaced details have on public perception and potential further investigations?