Thames Valley Police have confirmed they are now in contact with the legal team representing a woman who alleges she was trafficked for sex at an address associated with Prince Andrew in Windsor. This development was announced by the force in its first official update on Friday, indicating a formal engagement with the woman's representatives regarding her claims.
The police statement emphasised that should the woman choose to formally report her allegations, they would be taken seriously and investigated appropriately. This communication signifies a crucial step in the potential progression of these long-standing claims, which have previously circulated in the public domain.
The allegations centre on a woman's claim that she was a victim of sex trafficking, with specific reference to an address belonging to Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor. While the nature and specifics of the alleged trafficking have not been detailed by the police, the force's engagement with legal counsel suggests a readiness to consider a formal complaint.
Prince Andrew has consistently and vehemently denied any wrongdoing in connection with allegations made against him in the past. These new developments, however, bring the focus back to the potential for a police investigation into specific claims of trafficking made by an individual in the UK.
The engagement by Thames Valley Police marks a significant shift, moving from general awareness of the allegations to direct communication with the accuser's legal representatives. This could pave the way for a formal complaint and subsequent investigation, depending on the woman's decision and the evidence presented.