In a surprise move, Prince Andrew has broken his silence about the Jeffrey Epstein case.
The royal, who was not seen with the Queen in Balmoral this weekend despite being seen with her last weekend, appears to be laying low at present following a surge in interest in the alleged connection he and Epstein had back in the day.
The global interest comes after it was announced Epstein had died by suicide while awaiting federal trial for sex trafficking.
Following the shock announcement about Epstein’s death in August, all eyes have been on Prince Andrew, who was allegedly associated with Epstein in the past.
However, in a statement from Buckingham Palace, the royal has finally spoken out about the scandal surrounding the billionaire, saying he was “appalled” by Epstein’s actions.
The Daily Telegraph broke the news earlier this morning, sharing the formal statement from the palace which read: “The Duke of York has been appalled by the recent reports of Jeffrey Epstein’s alleged crimes.
“His Royal Highness deplores the exploitation of any human being and the suggestion he would condone, participate in or encourage any such behaviour is abhorrent.”
Prince Andrew has been under heavy scrutiny over the past week, with new pictures of the royal raising suspicion about his involvement with Epstein.
The Sun reported that the Duke of York was seen at Jeffrey ‘s mansion in Manhattan nine years ago.
Photos released by Mail On Sunday revealed the Duke at the door to the mansion as he gives a nod and a wave to a woman as she leaves.
Buckingham Palace has denied any wrongdoing on Andrew’s part, and the Queen has also shown him her support.
The Telegraph reports Andrew is currently holidaying in Spain with his ex-wife Sarah Ferguson.
Buckingham Palace also recently confirmed their denial of any allegations against Andrew which were made by Virginia Roberts, who was one of Jeffrey ‘s victms.
According to the publication, a spokesperson said: “This relates to proceedings in the United States, to which the Duke of York is not a party. Any suggestion of impropriety with under-age minors is categorically untrue.
“It is emphatically denied that the Duke of York had any form of sexual contact or relationship with Virginia Roberts.
“Any claim to the contrary is false and without foundation.”
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