The release of a vast new tranche of Jeffrey Epstein documents by the US Department of Justice has once again cast a harsh light on Prince Andrew’s association with the convicted sex offender, revealing emails that appear to contradict his previous denials and including photographs that further damage his reputation.
In one email from February 2011, the then-Prince Andrew wrote to Epstein: “This week is all about me,” adding that he was “about to go into my annual retreat for the next eight days” and thanking Epstein for apparently helping to resolve a financial issue for his ex-wife, Sarah Ferguson.
The correspondence, part of millions of pages disclosed this week, undermines Andrew’s claim that he severed all ties with Epstein in 2010. In a separate email after a December 2010 visit to New York, Andrew told Epstein: “It was great to spend time with my US family. Looking forward to joining you all again soon.”
Read related news from New Daily Prime:
New Epstein files reveal multiple Trump references
Epstein survivors’ lawyer urges renaming of NI streets honouring Prince Andrew
The documents also include images showing Andrew in compromising poses, including one on all fours, which the US authorities have released as part of the ongoing investigation into Epstein’s activities.
The latest disclosures highlight repeated attempts by US investigators to secure Andrew’s cooperation. In early 2020, the Department of Justice pressed his lawyers for an interview, with exchanges growing increasingly frustrated. No formal interview took place, and the Covid-19 pandemic intervened.
Andrew has consistently denied any wrongdoing. A spokesman for the prince said he had been approached for comment.
The emails also expose the extent of Andrew’s contact with Epstein after the financier’s 2008 conviction for soliciting prostitution from a minor. They include Christmas Day messages in 2010 and a homemade family card with photos of Andrew’s daughters and an image of him abseiling down the Shard.
Business discussions appear in earlier exchanges, with Epstein mentioning contacts with substantial funds and potential deals in China, the Gulf and Libya. Andrew responded positively, noting government purchases up to £3 billion.
Sarah Ferguson, the former Duchess of York, is also mentioned in the files. In 2009, she described Epstein as “the brother I have always wished for” and sought financial help from him, including an urgent request for £20,000 to cover rent. Epstein claimed to have supported her financially for 15 years.
The disclosures come after Andrew was stripped of his royal titles last year, a move that Buckingham Palace appears to view as timely given the renewed scrutiny.
Analysts suggest the latest revelations could prompt further calls for Andrew to provide testimony to US authorities, including requests from Democrats in Congress last year.
The Epstein case continues to generate intense public interest, with the Justice Department describing this as the largest and final major release of documents.
