The scandal involving Jeffrey Epstein has been in the public eye for a long time. Everyone associated with or named in the emails released by the Department of Justice is under scrutiny. One of them is the disgraced former Prince Andrew.
Now, there is an update about a now‑infamous picture of him with an unidentified young woman.
Newly released images of Andrew Mountbatten‑Windsor, the former Duke of York, have sparked a fresh wave of questions. The most controversial image shows Andrew with a woman lying beneath him. Her identity was protected, and her face was not visible.
U.S. lawmakers are now alleging that the woman in the picture may be a victim of sex trafficking. A heated exchange unfolded during a U.S. Congressional hearing when California Congressman Ted Lieu raised questions about the woman’s identity and the legal implications.
Lieu directly asked U.S. Attorney General Pam Bondi, “Under the law Congress passed, you were allowed to redact photos to protect victims of Epstein’s sex trafficking operation. You redacted the photos of this victim’s face because you were following congressional law. Is this correct?”
Bondi confirmed this, stating that redacting the woman’s face was in line with U.S. laws designed to protect victims.
Lieu continued, “You have now established that we are looking at a sex trafficking victim under the federal Victims Trafficking Protection Act. Not only is Jeffrey Epstein guilty, but anyone who patronized Epstein’s sex operation is also guilty of a crime.”
He condemned the images, alleging that their existence constituted “evidence of a crime,” and demanded that authorities take action.
“That’s why I find it absolutely despicable that you sought to protect Epstein’s clients, like former Prince Andrew,” Lieu said, calling for a full investigation into the former royal.
He then addressed Bondi directly: “These two photos staring you in the face are evidence of a crime, and more than enough evidence to predicate an investigation against former Prince Andrew. So I ask you, Attorney General Counsel, why did you shut down this investigation last July? And why have you not prosecuted former Prince Andrew?”
Lieu’s frustration was clear as he added, “There are over 1,000 sex trafficking victims and you have not held a single man accountable. Shame on you. If you had any decency, you would resign right after this hearing concludes.”
Former Prince Andrew Mountbatten has denied all accusations made against him. While being mentioned in the Epstein files is concerning, it does not automatically imply criminal activity. Andrew maintains he was never involved in anything illegal with Epstein.
In a statement released by the U.S. Department of Justice in July 2025, the department said there was not enough evidence to justify an investigation into any “uncharged third parties,” including the former disgraced royal.
Still, the former Prince remains under pressure for his ties to Epstein. Thames Valley Police have consulted the Crown Prosecution Service regarding potential misconduct by the former royal.
The investigation focused on allegations that Andrew leaked confidential reports to Epstein while serving as trade envoy to Hong Kong, Vietnam, and Singapore on behalf of the United Kingdom.
While the Royal Family has largely remained silent, they are now speaking out about their concerns.
A statement released by Kensington Palace on behalf of Prince William and Princess Kate expressed their distress over the situation: “I can confirm The Prince and Princess have been deeply concerned by the continuing revelations. Their thoughts remain focused on the victims.”
King Charles also made a rare public comment, offering his support to the victims. His statement read, “The King has made clear, in words and through unprecedented actions, his profound concern at allegations which continue to come to light in respect of Mr Mountbatten‑Windsor’s conduct.”
“The King also emphasized that while the specific claims in question are for Mr Mountbatten‑Windsor to address, the Royal Family stands ready to support Thames Valley Police if they approach us.”
The statement concluded, “As was previously stated, Their Majesties’ thoughts and sympathies have been, and remain, with the victims of any and all forms of abuse.”
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