Andrew Mountbatten Windsor has received a formal request to present evidence to a US congressional panel investigating Jeffrey Epstein’s criminal network. Robert Garcia, the leading Democrat on the House Oversight Committee, penned a letter to the former Duke of York, urging his participation in a recorded interview as part of the ongoing investigation. The letter, co-signed by 13 other Democrats, emphasized the committee’s objective to comprehend the entirety of Epstein’s illicit operations. The deadline for response is set for November 20.
A source disclosed to the Mirror that the Epstein scandal is far from fading away as Congress is now seeking to question Andrew, indicating a serious turn of events for him. The pressure from the American authorities signifies that the issue won’t simply dissipate over time, thrusting Andrew back into the public eye.
Although Andrew, who denies any wrongdoing, is mentioned in committee documents, including flight records, he is not legally obligated to comply with the request as Garcia lacks the authority to issue subpoenas to foreign nationals. The request was made without the support of the committee’s Republican majority, with a Republican spokesperson criticizing Garcia for what they perceive as a pursuit of media attention rather than assisting in the investigation.
Democrats on the committee have independently released documents previously, such as a drawing found in a greetings book for Epstein’s 50th birthday signed “Donald.” Donald Trump denied the authenticity of the signature and message, asserting that he distanced himself from Epstein many years ago.
Garcia emphasized the need for accountability for survivors of Epstein’s actions and urged Andrew to come forward with the truth. Andrew, now a private individual, has been under intense scrutiny following allegations made by Virginia Giuffre, who accused Epstein of trafficking her as a minor and coercing her into sexual activities. After settling a civil suit with Giuffre without admitting guilt, Andrew has faced further repercussions, including losing his royal title and facing eviction from Royal Lodge.
In a 2019 BBC interview, Andrew claimed no recollection of meeting Giuffre but acknowledged visiting Epstein and confirmed his interactions with the disgraced financier. Recent revelations, including an email exchange between Andrew and Epstein, have heightened scrutiny on the former prince. As pressure mounts in Washington for the release of additional government documents related to Epstein, bipartisan efforts are underway to force a vote for disclosure through a discharge petition, with the aim of obtaining 218 signatures.
The delay in the swearing-in of Democrat Adelita Grijalva, who has committed to providing the crucial 218th signature, has drawn criticism from Democrats. Meanwhile, the Department of Justice is yet to release its complete case files on the matter.
