Buckingham Palace has affirmed King Charles III’s willingness to cooperate with a potential police investigation into allegations that his brother, Prince Andrew, shared confidential British trade information with convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein in 2010. The statement, released Monday, marks the King’s first public response to the latest disclosures from U.S. Justice Department filings.
A spokesperson for Buckingham Palace stated that 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,” according to reports from multiple news outlets including USA Today and the Associated Press. The Palace further indicated it “stands ready to support” Thames Valley Police should they formally initiate an investigation.
The renewed scrutiny stems from recently released documents showing emails between Prince Andrew and Epstein that suggest the former prince transmitted official British trade documents to Epstein after Epstein’s 2008 conviction for sex crimes with a minor. Thames Valley Police, responsible for the area where Prince Andrew once resided, confirmed it is currently “assessing” the reports.
The King’s statement followed similar expressions of concern from other members of the royal family. Prince William and Princess Kate released a statement Monday expressing their “deeply concerned” reaction to the revelations, focusing on the victims of Epstein’s alleged sex trafficking. Prince Edward also commented on the matter, echoing the emphasis on supporting victims, according to reports.
The Palace’s willingness to support a police investigation represents a significant shift in approach. King Charles has previously taken steps to distance himself from his brother, stripping Prince Andrew of his royal titles and military affiliations in 2022. The current situation adds further pressure on the monarchy as it navigates the fallout from the Epstein scandal.
Global News reported that the statement from Buckingham Palace came after Thames Valley Police announced it was evaluating allegations that Epstein flew a young woman to the U.K. To meet with Prince Andrew in 2010, adding another layer to the ongoing scrutiny.
