Former Duke of York Leaves Royal Lodge Amid Fresh Police Investigation
Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor, the former Duke of York, has officially moved out of his long-term residence at Royal Lodge in Windsor. This relocation coincides with Thames Valley Police confirming they are actively assessing a new allegation linked to the late financier Jeffrey Epstein.
Police Probe into 2010 Windsor Encounter
Thames Valley Police has announced it is evaluating a claim that a woman was sent by Jeffrey Epstein to meet Andrew at Royal Lodge in 2010. According to reports, the alleged encounter occurred when the woman was in her twenties, as detailed by her legal representative in recent statements to the BBC.
A spokesperson for the force stated: "We are aware of reports about a woman said to have been taken to an address in Windsor in 2010 for sexual purposes. We are assessing the information in line with our established procedures. We take any reports of sexual crimes extremely seriously and encourage anyone with information to come forward."
The police emphasised that, at this stage, neither the lawyer nor the client has formally reported these allegations to Thames Valley Police, but the assessment is proceeding as part of standard investigative protocols.
Andrew's Move to Norfolk and Royal Fallout
The former duke's departure from Royal Lodge marks a significant shift, with Sky News' royal correspondent Rhiannon Mills indicating this is part of a permanent relocation to Norfolk. Andrew is currently residing in a house on the Sandringham Estate, which is viewed as temporary accommodation while final arrangements are made for a more permanent move in the coming months.
This development follows an announcement from Buckingham Palace last October, which revealed that King Charles III had initiated the process of removing Andrew's style, title, and honours. The Palace cited that the ongoing Epstein-linked allegations had begun to "distract" from the Royal Family's official duties and charitable work.
Historical Context and Denials
Andrew has consistently denied any wrongdoing in relation to Jeffrey Epstein, a convicted sex offender who died in prison in 2019. The former duke has not issued a public statement regarding this latest allegation, maintaining his previous stance of innocence amidst the swirling controversy.
The Epstein case continues to cast a long shadow, with survivors and legal experts closely monitoring developments. This police assessment adds another layer to the complex narrative surrounding the disgraced financier's associates and their alleged activities.
As the situation unfolds, the Royal Family faces ongoing scrutiny, balancing internal dynamics with public perception. The move to Sandringham represents not just a physical relocation but a symbolic step in Andrew's gradual withdrawal from public royal life, amid persistent legal and media attention.
