Virginia Giuffre's Family Calls U.S. Response 'Shameful' After Former Prince Andrew Arrest
virginia giuffre's family said Thursday that the U. S. response to the Jeffrey Epstein files is "shameful" after the arrest of former Prince Andrew in the U. K., a move family members described as a moment of vindication for survivors.
Family reaction: relief and anger
The family said they were happy about the arrest of Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor but frustrated that similar legal consequences have not followed in the United States. Sky Roberts said in an emotional interview that he learned about the arrest at 3 a. m., and that the news produced "a boost of adrenaline" and feelings of vindication for his sister. Amanda Roberts said the family had wanted to be calling virginia giuffre to celebrate and that the day brought mixed emotions of joy and sorrow.
Virginia Giuffre's brother: 'We won't stop until justice is served'
Sky Roberts, speaking about his sister, said he remembered her telling him, "He knows what he did. I know what he did, and there's only one of us telling the truth, and I know that's me. " He said that memory resonated as the family processed the arrest. Amanda Roberts said the arrest showed Giuffre's character "coming to fruition" and described the family's determination to continue pursuing justice.
Arrest details and the allegations tied to the Epstein files
Mountbatten-Windsor was arrested Thursday on suspicion of misconduct in public office, an action brought after documents in the Jeffrey Epstein files prompted scrutiny of his conduct while serving as a British trade envoy. The family noted that the charge was not directly related to sexual trafficking or abuse. The arrest came on the former prince's 66th birthday; he was released after about 12 hours and remains under investigation.
The family also recalled that Giuffre had accused Mountbatten-Windsor of assaulting her on three separate occasions when she was 17; he has denied those allegations. Giuffre reached a settlement with him in 2022 that paid her some $16 million, a figure mentioned in British media. Giuffre died by suicide last year at age 41.
Amanda Roberts emphasized the seriousness of the current charges, saying they are punishable by life in the U. K. and welcoming the possibility of a consequential legal process. Sky Roberts expressed pride in his sister and said the arrest offered some measure of vindication for Giuffre and other survivors.
Another family comment captured a hope that the arrest might prompt broader consequences; Sky Roberts said he hoped the action would mark the start of a collapse of a "house of cards. "
Thames Valley Police said they arrested a man in his 60s on suspicion of misconduct in public office; officials have released the man but have said the investigation remains open. The family said they will continue to press for accountability as investigators proceed.