Prince Andrew allegedly sexually abused Virginia Giuffre more than two decades ago at the Manhattan home of Jeffrey Epstein. At the time of the alleged attack, Giuffre was under 18.
Giuffre filed a lawsuit against Prince Andrew in Manhattan federal court earlier this month. Prince Andrew is reportedly working with attorneys to determine a legal strategy while he remains at Balmoral Castle in Scotland with his mother, Queen Elizabeth.
The case against Prince Andrew alleges that the duke engaged in sexual acts without consent, despite knowing her age and that she was a victim of sex trafficking. Giuffre had also previously accused both Jeffrey Epstein and his long-term girlfriend Ghislaine Maxwell of sexual abuse.
Prince William reportedly wants to make sure Prince Andrew will not return to any of his public duties. The Duke of York had taken a step back from all 230 of his charities back in 2019.
"The family also has serious and growing doubts about the way such serious allegations have been dealt with by Andrew and his legal team, who seem to be at complete odds with one another on how to respond," the source said.
However, the royal family continues to publicly deny any involvement of Prince Andrew in sexual abuse. The Palace issued a statement:
"It is emphatically denied that The Duke of York had any form of sexual contact or relationship with Virginia Roberts. Any claim to the contrary is false and without foundation."
"The Duke of York unequivocally regrets his ill-judged association with Jeffrey Epstein. Epstein’s suicide left many unanswered questions, particularly for his victims. The Duke deeply sympathizes with those affected who want some form of closure. It is his hope that, in time, they will be able to rebuild their lives. The Duke is willing to help any appropriate law enforcement agency with their investigations if required."