The family of Virginia Giuffre has commended authorities for their prompt handling of the Epstein case following the arrest of Lord Peter Mandelson on suspicion of public office misconduct. Mandelson was released on bail early Tuesday morning and is still under investigation.
The former US ambassador is accused of sharing sensitive information with convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein during his tenure as business secretary.
Virginia Giuffre’s family has lauded UK authorities for taking decisive action against individuals linked to the sex offender. In a statement to the BBC, Giuffre’s brother Sky Roberts and his wife Amanda expressed appreciation for the authorities’ urgency in dealing with the Epstein files.
The family emphasized the importance of these arrests as a significant step towards accountability and truth, highlighting the contrast with the lack of action in the United States. They stressed the need for transparency, swift investigations, and justice for survivors, regardless of the individuals involved.
Footage emerged on Monday afternoon of Mandelson being escorted from his residence by a plain-clothes police officer for questioning at a London police station. Police had previously searched two of Mandelson’s properties in connection with the allegations stemming from the recent release of Epstein-related documents by the US Department of Justice.
Mandelson denied recollection of receiving payments amounting to USD$75,000 (£55,000) from Epstein between 2003 and 2004, as indicated in bank records from the Epstein file tranche. Additionally, Epstein allegedly funded an osteopathy course for Mandelson’s husband during the financial crisis in 2009.
Mandelson’s arrest follows the recent detention of Prince Andrew on similar charges of public office misconduct. Although stripped of his title, Prince Andrew remains eighth in line to the throne, requiring an Act of Parliament to prevent him from ascending to the throne. The UK Government is considering legislative action once the police complete their investigation into Andrew’s involvement with Epstein.
In response to Mandelson’s arrest, Sir Keir Starmer will lead a Cabinet meeting, while the Liberal Democrats aim to push for the public release of files concerning Mr. Mountbatten-Windsor’s trade envoy appointment, as he also faces accusations of sharing sensitive information with Epstein.
Virginia Giuffre, a prominent accuser of Epstein, who is remembered as a convicted sex offender and pedophile, passed away before standing trial. Ghislaine Maxwell, Epstein’s former girlfriend, remains in custody. Maxwell alleged that Epstein trafficked her to Prince Andrew when she was 17, a claim Andrew denies.
For emotional support, individuals can contact the Samaritans 24-hour helpline, email jo@samaritans.org, visit a local branch, or access the Samaritans website.
