The fallout from the latest release of Jeffrey Epstein’s files has triggered a transatlantic firestorm. In Washington, D.C., Attorney General Pam Bondi faced a bruising five-hour grilling in Congress, while in the UK, police confirmed they are holding talks with prosecutors regarding Prince Andrew.
Here is a breakdown of a chaotic day in the US Capitol and the deepening legal peril for the Duke of York.
“Shame on You”: Bondi Grilled on Prince Andrew
Attorney General Pam Bondi appeared before the House Judiciary Committee on Wednesday to answer for the Department of Justice’s handling of the Epstein documents. The session quickly descended into shouting matches.
Bondi faced fierce questioning regarding the administration’s failure to investigate Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor (Prince Andrew).
- The Clash: When pressed on why the DOJ had not interviewed specific witnesses or acted on evidence linking the royal to Epstein, Bondi deflected, citing “pending investigations” but offering no specifics.
- The Moment: Amidst the heated exchange, a committee member told the Attorney General, “Shame on you,” for the lack of action regarding the allegations against the Duke.
Bondi also vehemently defended President Donald Trump, dismissing questions about his own links to Epstein—including documents referencing an FBI tip from a limo driver—as “ridiculous” and devoid of evidence.
UK Police Hold Talks with Prosecutors
While Bondi defended the administration in D.C., significant developments broke in London. Thames Valley Police confirmed they are in discussions with the Crown Prosecution Service (CPS) regarding fresh allegations against Prince Andrew.
The inquiry stems from documents in the latest Epstein files that appear to show Andrew, during his time as the UK’s trade envoy, sharing confidential government information with the convicted sex offender.
- The Allegation: Emails suggest Andrew leaked sensitive trade reports and briefings on international markets to Epstein.
- The Status: Police are “assessing” a report formally lodged by the anti-monarchy group Republic. They are determining if a full criminal investigation for misconduct in public office is warranted.
Victims’ Identities Leaked
Perhaps the most damaging revelation from the hearing was the DOJ’s failure to protect Epstein’s victims.
- Redaction Errors: Bondi admitted that mistakes were made, leading to the release of unredacted files that exposed the personal details of survivors. She blamed the errors on tight legislative deadlines and the sheer volume of 3 million pages.
- Survivor Reaction: A number of survivors present at the hearing expressed visible frustration. When asked if they felt the Attorney General “had their back,” the room remained silent.
Other Key Developments
- LA28 Olympics: Casey Wasserman will keep his job as chair of the LA 2028 Olympics committee, despite emails revealing he exchanged flirtatious messages with Maxwell in 2003. An independent review found no evidence of wrongdoing.
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