UK Police Will Not Investigate Prince Andrew Over Epstein-Related Claims

British police confirmed on Friday that there will be no investigation into Prince Andrew following a call for inquiry linked to US court documents concerning Jeffrey Epstein, who took his own life in jail in 2019.

These documents, which a New York judge began to unveil on Wednesday, have named several individuals associated with the convicted sex offender Epstein, including Prince Andrew. The Duke of York faces allegations of inappropriate conduct, which he refutes.

Campaigning group Republic, advocating for an elected head of state in Britain, announced having reported Prince Andrew to the police on Thursday. Labour leader Keir Starmer, also an ex-chief prosecutor, suggested the police should examine the new allegations. However, the Metropolitan Police dismissed the possibility of an inquiry, stating no investigation is underway but reassured reviewing any new, pertinent information if presented.

Prince Andrew, having distanced himself from royal duties in 2019 amid his controversial defense of his relationship with Epstein, settled a US lawsuit in February 2022. Virginia Giuffre, the plaintiff, alleged he sexually abused her when she was a minor, an accusation Andrew vehemently denies.

Following the lawsuit, Queen Elizabeth II removed his military titles and patronages. In October 2021, the Metropolitan Police concluded its probe into Giuffre's claims without further action.