A US congressman has declared that Jeffrey Epstein may have trafficked more women to meet Prince Andrew than the previously alleged victim, Virginia Giuffre. The shocking claim forms part of a widening Congressional investigation into the 'Epstein Files'.
Congressional Inquiry Intensifies
Democrat Suhas Subramanyam, a member of the House Oversight Committee, is leading the charge. He stated that 'brave survivors of Epstein' have provided crucial testimony about Andrew and 'other powerful men'. Based on this, the committee now has reason to believe others were trafficked to the former royal.
Last week, Mr Subramanyam and 15 other Democratic committee members sent a formal letter to Prince Andrew. They are demanding that he testify under oath to reveal everything he knew about Epstein's extensive sex-trafficking ring. This development comes after Andrew was officially stripped of his royal titles last month.
New Allegations and Evidence
The inquiry has uncovered a potential second victim. It is alleged that in an email dated 11th August 2010, Epstein introduced Andrew to another woman he had sexually abused for years. Epstein wrote, 'I have a friend who I think you might enjoy having dinner with.' Andrew allegedly responded, 'Would be delighted to see her. Please give her my contact details.' It remains unclear if a meeting took place.
This follows the tragic case of Virginia Giuffre, who took her own life in April. She alleged she was trafficked to Andrew for sex on three occasions when she was just 17. The Duke settled a civil case with her for a reported £12 million without admitting any wrongdoing.
Widening the Net for Testimony
Congressman Subramanyam has warned that Andrew's troubles are far from over. The investigation is set to expand significantly. Congress will now invite Andrew's former Royal protection officers to testify about what they witnessed. There is also expressed interest in speaking to his ex-wife, Sarah Ferguson, who could be summoned to give evidence under oath.
In a major breakthrough for the inquiry, Epstein's estate is 'fully co-operating' and recently handed over 17,000 documents related to his financial records. Mr Subramanyam explained that victims advised them to 'follow the money', as financial activities reveal the story of the sex-trafficking operation.
When asked what he would say to Andrew, the congressman was direct: 'If he has nothing to hide and did nothing wrong, as he alleges, then he should have no problem coming before us and telling his side.' He added that even without Andrew's cooperation, 'We will get to the bottom of this.'
However, a Royal insider has stated there is 'not a hope in hell of him appearing before Congress', as testifying under oath could open him up to potential criminal charges. The behaviour of the Duke of York will be discussed by MPs in the House of Commons for the first time later this week.
