A survivor of Jeffrey Epstein has accused Buckingham Palace of failing to act on evidence implicating Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor in the unauthorized disclosure of sensitive government information. Jess Michaels, who said she was sexually assaulted by Epstein in 1991, alleged that the Palace had known about Mr. Mountbatten-Windsor’s conduct for several years but chose to protect him instead of pursuing an investigation.
Ms. Michaels, who was a professional dancer in New York City at the time of the assault, told the press that the Palace had received emails six years ago indicating that Mr. Mountbatten-Windsor, while serving as a trade envoy, shared confidential government documents with a business contact. She accused the institution of covering up his actions despite the potential for criminal investigation. “Six years ago, the Palace knew Andrew wasn’t just a problem, he could face a criminal investigation. And they sat on it,” she said.
The survivor emphasized the broader implications of the Palace’s handling of the situation, highlighting the impact on other victims, including Virginia Roberts Giuffre, one of Epstein’s most outspoken accusers. Giuffre had alleged she was trafficked to Mr. Mountbatten-Windsor when she was 17, a claim he denies. Ms. Michaels criticized the Palace’s approach as an example of institutions protecting influential figures while sidelining those harmed. She expressed sorrow that Ms. Giuffre did not live to see her claims acknowledged.
In February, Mr. Mountbatten-Windsor was arrested on suspicion of misconduct in public office linked to allegations that he disclosed sensitive information to Epstein during his tenure as a trade envoy. Documents released as part of the Epstein files suggest that in November 2010, he forwarded official reports related to overseas trips to Hong Kong, Singapore, Vietnam, and China.
Court filings reveal that Buckingham Palace received extensive correspondence in 2020, including about 30,000 emails, some concerning Mr. Mountbatten-Windsor’s conduct. These documents indicate the former prince sent correspondence to Jonathan Rowland, a close associate and former CEO of Banque Havilland, during his public service from 2001 to 2011.
The revelations have intensified scrutiny of the Palace and raised questions about what was known internally and whether timely action was taken. Labour MP Rachel Maskell, speaking on BBC Radio 4’s Today programme, called for a public inquiry and a joint committee from the House of Commons and House of Lords to review the Royal household’s handling of such matters. She highlighted concerns over unaccountable power and abuses within high office.
Buckingham Palace declined to comment on the emails, citing an ongoing police investigation into Mr. Mountbatten-Windsor’s case. Representatives stated that they could not provide any remarks while legal proceedings continue. Mr. Mountbatten-Windsor has denied all allegations of wrongdoing.
