London, UK — October 18, 2025 — Newly-revealed emails suggest that Prince Andrew instructed a member of the Metropolitan Police Service (Met) royal protection unit to help dig up damaging information on Virginia Giuffre, the American woman who accused him of sexual abuse. The emails show he provided her date of birth and U.S. social security number and requested “investigation” ahead of a major public scandal. The Sun
The Email Disclosure
According to the report, the email — reportedly sent by Prince Andrew to his then-press secretary Ed Perkins — said:
“It would also seem she has a criminal record in the [United] States. I have given her DoB and social security number for investigation with XXX, the on duty PPO [personal protection officer].” The Sun
This communication is especially explosive because it appears to show a royal figure attempting to use private and sensitive data for a campaign of discrediting an accuser. The email was sent just hours before a photograph of Andrew with Giuffre, then aged 17, at a residence linked to the late Jeffrey Epstein surfaced in 2011.
Legal and Criminal Implications
Legal experts are calling for a police probe. One solicitor said the allegations raise serious questions about whether a criminal conspiracy may have occurred — specifically, the misuse of personal data, unauthorized access to law-enforcement contacts, and orchestrated defamation. The Sun
In the UK, obtaining someone’s social security number (or equivalent) and using it for investigative purposes without authorization may amount to offences under data protection laws and could involve corruption or misuse of official powers.
Reactions & Royal Fallout
Giuffre’s family released a statement saying the email “exposes the lengths to which those implicated try to discredit and defame survivors”. They described the new evidence as further vindication of her truth-telling. The Sun
Within the royal circles, the scandal has reignited pressure on Prince Andrew to relinquish remaining titles and privileges. Reports suggest the King is determined that the Duke of York must step away from representation duties given the magnitude of the controversy.
