Andrew’s arrest does not guarantee justice for trafficking victims, says top US lawyer

The Guardian World

by Robyn Vinter

February 20, 2026

AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary

A top US lawyer, Gloria Allred, has expressed skepticism that justice will be served for victims of Jeffrey Epstein despite the arrest of Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor, a former UK trade envoy. She criticized the prioritization of allegations involving the sharing of state trade secrets over sexual assault claims against him, suggesting that high-profile cases often see legal processes skewed in favor of powerful individuals. This raises concerns about the broader implications for justice in similar situations. Mountbatten-Windsor, who was previously linked to Epstein, faced arrest after being accused of leaking confidential documents during his tenure as a trade envoy. However, Allred emphasized that while authorities acted swiftly on these allegations, there has been minimal progress on sexual assault claims tied to him. This disparity highlights a potential systemic issue where cases involving influential figures are often overshadowed by less severe but more politically charged accusations. Allred’s comments underscore the challenges victims of human trafficking and sexual abuse face in achieving justice, particularly when powerful individuals are involved. The case also sheds light on the complex interplay between politics, law, and high-profile crimes, which can divert attention from critical issues like sexual assault. For readers interested in global affairs and human rights, this story highlights the ongoing struggles faced by victims seeking accountability and fair treatment within legal systems. This situation underscores broader concerns about how justice is dispensed when influential figures are involved, particularly in cases of alleged abuse and misconduct. The lack of progress on sexual assault claims against Mountbatten-Windsor suggests a deeper issue with how such cases are prioritized and addressed, raising questions about the fairness and transparency of legal processes. Ultimately, Allred’s perspective serves as a reminder of the uphill battle faced by victims of trafficking and abuse. Her comments call attention to the need for stronger protections and more equitable treatment within legal systems to ensure that justice is not overshadowed by other concerns, especially in cases involving high-profile individuals.

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Originally published on The Guardian World on 2/20/2026